heliograph
Americannoun
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a device for signaling by means of a movable mirror that reflects beams of light, especially sunlight, to a distance.
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Astronomy. photoheliograph.
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Meteorology. an instrument for recording the duration and intensity of sunshine.
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Photography, Printing. an early type of photoengraving made on a metal plate coated with sensitized asphalt.
verb (used with or without object)
noun
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an instrument with mirrors and a shutter used for sending messages in Morse code by reflecting the sun's rays
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a device used to photograph the sun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of heliograph
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Many of the instruments used in early operations of the United States Army Signal Corps were adaptations of equipment used by the Plains Indians, particularly that of the heliograph.
From SAT Tests
In the flash of heliograph signals in the North Sea haze and the speaking of great naval guns, the world has lately read a certain statement about the British Empire.
From Time Magazine Archive
Moving further to the east, Milton observed, in the plains beyond the distant end of the valley, the two squadrons under Colonel Gough, but failed in an attempt to attract their attention by heliograph.
From History of the War in South Africa 1899-1902 v. 1 (of 4) Compiled by Direction of His Majesty's Government by Great Britain. War Office
Far in rear, upon a hill-top, a heliograph blinked and flickered in the sun.
From Across the Cameroons A Story of War and Adventure by Charles Gilson
The heliograph would be useless in stormy weather or in fog.
From El Diablo by Dan Sayre Groesbeck
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