Abacus

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈæb.ə.kəs/

Definitions

• A device used for counting and calculating, consisting of a frame with rods or wires along which beads are moved.
• In ancient times, a counting board or calculating tool used in mathematics.

Usage Examples

• The merchant used an abacus to calculate the total cost of the goods.
• Children in some cultures are taught to perform arithmetic using an abacus.

Etymology

The word "abacus" comes from the Latin "abacus," which derives from the Greek "abax," meaning "tablet" or "board."

Synonyms

• Counting frame
• Calculating tool

Antonyms

• None applicable

Translations

• Spanish: ábaco
• French: abaque
• German: Abakus
• Italian: abaco
• Portuguese: ábaco
• Russian: абакус
• Chinese (Simplified): 算盘
• Japanese: アバカス
• Korean: 주판
• Arabic: حسابي
• Hindi: अबकस
• Bengali: আবাকাস
• Punjabi: ਅਬੈਕਸ
• Gujarati: અબકસ
• Marathi: अबॅकस
• Tamil: அபக்கஸ்
• Telugu: అబాకస్
• Malayalam: അബാക്കസ്
• Kannada: ಅಬಕಸ್
• Odia: ଅବାକସ
• Assamese: আবাকাছ
• Urdu: اباکس
• Manipuri: আবাকাস
• Sindhi: اباکس

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation may vary slightly across different regions and languages.

Historical Usage

The abacus has been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations for arithmetic calculations.

Cultural Nuances

The abacus is not only a tool for calculations but also a symbol of education and mathematical skill in various cultures.

More Information

The abacus has evolved over time, with different cultures developing their own versions, which continue to be used for teaching and calculating even in modern times.