ABACI
ABACUS
abacus
(noun) a calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves
abacus
(noun) a tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Noun
abaci
plural of abacus
Source: Wiktionary
ABACUS
Ab"a*cus, n. E. pl. Abacuses ; L. pl. Abaci. Etym: [L. abacus, abax,
Gr.
1. A table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing,
calculating, etc. [Obs.]
2. A calculating table or frame; an instrument for performing
arithmetical calculations by balls sliding on wires, or counters in
grooves, the lowest line representing units, the second line, tens,
etc. It is still employed in China.
3. (Arch.)
(a) The uppermost member or division of the capital of a column,
immediately under the architrave. See Column.
(b) A tablet, panel, or compartment in ornamented or mosaic work.
4. A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for
holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or
sideboard. Abacus harmonicus (Mus.), an ancient diagram showing the
structure and disposition of the keys of an instrument. Crabb.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition