noun

pantograph

PAN-tuh-graf

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Pantograph (noun) means a mechanical linkage of parallelogram-shaped bars that lets two points move in parallel, often used to copy a drawing at a different scale. Example: “The draughtsman used a pantograph to enlarge the sketch onto the poster board.”

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."

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."

rail transport 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."

How to use pantograph

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA pantograph is a folding, linked framework used either for copying drawings, for extending like scissors, or for collecting power on a train.

When to use it

The rail transport sense is standard technical vocabulary among transport engineers and enthusiasts.

Memory tip

Context tells you which meaning is intended: near trains it means the power-collecting device, near drawing or lifting equipment it means the folding linkage.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

train's pantograph pantograph mechanism scissor-lift pantograph raise the pantograph overhead line pantograph

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “pantograph” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The draughtsman used a _____ to enlarge the sketch onto the poster board.

Etymology

The word comes from French pantographe. That in turn combines Greek panto-, from pas meaning all, with graphein, meaning to write or draw.

Origin: French

Synonyms

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lazy tongs

Rhymes for pantograph

autograph photograph phonograph

See all rhymes for pantograph →

Frequently asked questions

What is a pantograph used for?

It is used to copy or scale a drawing, to form an extending scissor-like frame, or, on trains and trams, to collect electric current from overhead wires.

Why do trains have a pantograph on the roof?

It is the device that presses up against the overhead wire so the train can draw electric power while it moves.

Is a pantograph the same as a scissor lift?

A scissor lift uses a pantograph mechanism, a folding framework of crossed bars, to raise its platform, but the two terms are not always used interchangeably.

What is the meaning of pantograph?

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