Napier's Bones (Noun)
Meaning
A set of graduated rods formerly used to do multiplication and division by a method invented by John Napier.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Usages
Examples
- Napier's bones were a set of rods with numbers inscribed on them that were used for multiplication and division in the 17th century.
- The mathematician used Napier's bones to quickly calculate the product of two large numbers.
- Napier's bones were an early example of a mechanical calculator, predating the development of more complex machines.
- The student struggled to understand how to use Napier's bones to perform long division.
- The museum exhibit featured a set of Napier's bones, along with other early mathematical instruments.