SLIPSTICK Meaning and
Definition
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A slipstick is a mechanical calculating device that was invented in the early 17th century and gained popularity during the 20th century. Also known as a slide rule, it is a handheld instrument used for performing complex mathematical calculations, primarily multiplication, division, logarithms, and trigonometry, without the need for electricity or batteries.
Typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, a slipstick consists of two parallel rulers, one fitted with a sliding scale that moves back and forth along the other fixed ruler. Each ruler contains logarithmic scales with number lines or markings that allow the user to align and read the values on the scales to perform mathematical operations. By aligning the scales or logarithmic lines corresponding to the numbers to be calculated, the user can accurately estimate the result.
The slipstick revolutionized mathematical calculations during its time and was commonly used by engineers, scientists, and students until the emergence of electronic calculators in the 1970s. Due to its compact size, durability, and versatility, slipsticks were portable and practical tools for those needing quick and accurate calculations in various fields such as engineering, physics, and astronomy.
Although largely replaced by digital calculators, the slipstick remains an important artifact in the history of mathematics and is still appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts today for its role in advancing scientific computations before the digital age.
Common Misspellings for SLIPSTICK
- alipstick
- zlipstick
- xlipstick
- dlipstick
- elipstick
- wlipstick
- skipstick
- spipstick
- soipstick
- slupstick
- sljpstick
- slkpstick
- slopstick
- sl9pstick
- sl8pstick
- sliostick
- slilstick
- sli-stick
- sli0stick
Etymology of SLIPSTICK
The word "slipstick" is a colloquial term for a slide rule, which is a mechanical device used for mathematical calculations. The etymology of "slipstick" can be traced to the early 20th century. The term was coined by the American inventor and electrical engineer, Charles D. Sherwin.
In 1909, Sherwin patented a device called the "slip-stick" for mechanical calculations. It was essentially a cylindrical slide rule with sliding scales. The name "slip-stick" was derived from the two primary movements used to operate the device: the slipping of the scales and the sticking caused by friction when they were adjusted. The "slip-stick" device was primarily designed for solving electrical engineering problems back then.
Over time, the term "slipstick" became a commonly used nickname for slide rules in general, especially among engineers and scientists.
Similar spelling words for SLIPSTICK
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