How Do You Spell VOLVELLE?

Pronunciation: [vˈɒlvɛl] (IPA)

Volvelle is a mechanical device consisting of rotating discs, used to calculate astronomical positions or the dates of religious holidays. The pronunciation of this word is /ˈvɒlvɛl/. In the phonetic transcription, the symbol /v/ represents the voiced labiodental fricative, while /ɛ/ represents the unrounded open-mid front vowel. The double L in the word is pronounced with a short, clipped sound made at the back of the throat. The final E is pronounced with a neutral vowel sound. The spelling of volvelle is unique and distinctive, reflecting the device's unique nature.

VOLVELLE Meaning and Definition

1. A volvelle refers to a rotating device, typically composed of multiple concentric circles or discs, that reveals information or assists in performing calculations. Derived from the Latin word volvere meaning "to roll," the term volvelle is used to describe a mechanical instrument that is designed to rotate or spin smoothly, allowing users to access different parts of the device easily for specific purposes. Typically, a volvelle features one or more moving parts connected to a central axis, enabling users to manually rotate the disks or circles to achieve the desired outcome.

   Volvelles have historically been used for various purposes, including navigation, astronomy, mathematics, and astrology. They are often constructed using paper or other suitable materials and may include printed information, numerical scales, illustrations, or diagrams. By turning the disks, users can align specific details or measurements to solve equations, track celestial movements, determine positions, or simply obtain relevant facts.

   The volvelle reached its peak popularity during the Renaissance and Baroque eras when mechanical devices were extensively used to aid in scientific and mathematical calculations. It allowed users to perform complex computations or access vast amounts of data in a compact and easily accessible format. However, with the advent of digital technology, the use of volvelles has become less prevalent, limited to nostalgic or historical recreations, rare book collections, or specialized fields that value the tactile nature and old-world charm of these handmade tools.

Common Misspellings for VOLVELLE

• colvelle
• bolvelle
• golvelle
• folvelle
• vilvelle
• vklvelle
• vllvelle
• vplvelle
• v0lvelle
• v9lvelle
• vokvelle
• vopvelle
• voovelle
• volcelle
• volbelle
• volgelle
• volfelle
• volvwlle
• volvslle
• volvdlle

Etymology of VOLVELLE

The word "volvelle" has its origin in Middle English, derived from the Old French word "volvele", meaning "small wheel". It ultimately comes from the Latin noun "volva" or '"volubilis", which means "rolling" or "a ball". The term "volvelle" has been used since the 16th century to describe a rotating disc or wheel used in various measuring instruments, navigational tools, astrolabes, or in some cases, interactive paper devices for scientific or entertainment purposes.

Plural form of VOLVELLE is VOLVELLES