Examples of “pantograph” in a Sentence

noun A mechanical linkage of parallelogram-shaped bars that lets two points move in parallel, often used to copy a drawing at a different scale.

• The draughtsman used a pantograph to enlarge the sketch onto the poster board.
• A pantograph lets you trace a small drawing and reproduce it several times bigger.
• Engravers once relied on a pantograph to copy a design onto metal.

noun A framework of crossed bars that can stretch out and fold up like an accordion, as in a scissor lift.

• The platform is raised by a pantograph mechanism that folds flat for storage.
• A pantograph mirror extends outward on hinged, crossing arms.
• The scissor lift's pantograph frame lets it reach a much greater height than its folded size suggests.

noun A device, usually shaped like a Z, mounted on top of a train or tram that collects electric current from overhead wires.

• The tram's pantograph slid smoothly along the overhead wire as it left the depot.
• Engineers lowered the pantograph before the train entered the tunnel.
• A worn pantograph can cause sparking against the overhead line.