adj
Uncommon
analog
A-nuh-log
Analog (adj) means representing information as a continuously variable signal rather than as digital data, such as the hands of a clock or an old vinyl recording. Example: “He still prefers an analog watch to a digital one.”
adj
1
Representing information as a continuously variable signal rather than as digital data, such as the hands of a clock or an old vinyl recording.
"He still prefers an analog watch to a digital one."
"The studio recorded the album on analog tape for a warmer sound."
"My grandmother's analog radio has a dial you turn to find stations."
noun
1
Something that closely corresponds to or mirrors something else.
"Sign language has no exact analog for every spoken idiom."
"Scientists often look for an analog in nature when designing new machines."
"The film has no real analog in modern cinema."
How to use analog
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNon-digital, or something that has a close counterpart elsewhere.
UK vs US
US spelling is "analog"; UK spelling is usually "analogue," especially for the electronics sense.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
analog clock
analog signal
analog synth
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Word forms
- Plural
- analogs
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He still prefers an _____ watch to a digital one.
Etymology
From French analogue, from Greek analogos, "proportionate," built from ana- ("up to") plus logos ("ratio").
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “analog” mean?
The word “analog” means representing information as a continuously variable signal rather than as digital data, such as the hands of a clock or an old vinyl recording. In plain terms, non-digital, or something that has a close counterpart elsewhere.
How do you pronounce “analog”?
“Analog” is pronounced A-nuh-log (/ˈænəlɔɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “analog” in a sentence?
Here is “analog” used in a sentence: “He still prefers an analog watch to a digital one.”
What is the opposite of “analog”?
The opposite of “analog” — its antonyms — are digital and discrete.
What part of speech is “analog”?
Depending on how it is used, “analog” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “analog” come from?
The word “analog” comes from French. From French analogue, from Greek analogos, "proportionate," built from ana- ("up to") plus logos ("ratio").
Is “analog” a common word?
“Analog” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “analog” have?
“Analog” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: representing information as a continuously variable signal rather than as digital data, such as the hands of a clock or an old vinyl recording.
What is the difference between analog and digital?
Analog signals or devices represent information as a continuously variable signal, like the sweeping hands of a clock, while digital devices represent the same information as discrete numerical data. Analog technology changes smoothly, while digital technology changes in fixed steps.
Is "analog" spelled the same in British English?
American English uses "analog," while British English typically spells it "analogue." Both spellings refer to the same concept and are pronounced identically.
What does "analog" mean when used as a noun rather than an adjective?
As a noun, an "analog" is something that closely corresponds to or mirrors something else, such as a fictional character described as an analog of a real historical figure. This usage is common in science and comparative analysis.
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