heliograph

American  

[hee-lee-uh-graf, -grahf] / ˈhi li əˌgræf, -ˌgrɑf /

noun

1. a device for signaling by means of a movable mirror that reflects beams of light, especially sunlight, to a distance.

2. Astronomy. photoheliograph.

3. Meteorology. an instrument for recording the duration and intensity of sunshine.

4. Photography, Printing. an early type of photoengraving made on a metal plate coated with sensitized asphalt.

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verb (used with or without object)

1. to communicate by heliograph.

heliograph British  

/ -ˌɡræf, ˌhiːlɪˈɒɡrəfə, ˈhiːlɪəʊˌɡrɑːf, ˌhiːlɪəʊˈɡræfɪk /

noun

1. an instrument with mirrors and a shutter used for sending messages in Morse code by reflecting the sun's rays

2. a device used to photograph the sun

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Other Word Forms

• heliographer noun
• heliographic adjective
• heliographical adjective
• heliographically adverb
• heliography noun

Etymology

Origin of heliograph

First recorded in 1815–25; helio- + -graph

Example Sentences

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

When I set up my heliograph he kicked it off the roof.

From King Spruce, A Novel by Day, Holman

Lane, without bestowing a glance on the speaker, was setting up his heliograph tripod.

From King Spruce, A Novel by Day, Holman

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

Related Words

• flare
• lantern
• radar