noun
protractor
pruh-TRAK-tuh
Protractor (noun) means a circular or semicircular tool for drawing or measuring angles. Example: “Place the protractor on the line and read off the angle.”
noun
1
A circular or semicircular tool for drawing or measuring angles.
"Place the protractor on the line and read off the angle."
"She used a protractor to draw a 40-degree angle."
"Every pupil needs a ruler and a protractor for the geometry lesson."
How to use protractor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe tool you use to measure angles.
When to use it
It is an everyday word, especially in schools.
Memory tip
Do not mix it up with a compass, which draws circles rather than measuring angles.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
use a protractor
semicircular protractor
measure with a protractor
a plastic protractor
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Place the _____ on the line and read off the angle.
Etymology
The word is formed in English from protract plus the ending -or.
Rhymes for protractor
See all rhymes for protractor →Frequently asked questions
What is a protractor used for?
A protractor is used for drawing or measuring angles.
What shape is a protractor?
It is a circular or semicircular tool.
How do you pronounce protractor?
It is pronounced pruh-TRAK-tuh.
What is the meaning of protractor?
"protractor" (noun) means a circular or semicircular tool for drawing or measuring angles.
