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• T square
  T square

  noun

  a T -shaped ruler, used primarily in mechanical drawing, having a short crosspiece that slides along the edge of the drawing board as a guide to the perpendicular longer section in making parallel lines, right angles, etc., and as a support for triangles.
• T-square
  T-square

  noun

  a T-shaped ruler used in mechanical drawing, consisting of a short crosspiece, which slides along the edge of the drawing board, and a long horizontal piece: used for drawing horizontal lines and to support set squares when drawing vertical and inclined lines

T square

American  

noun

1. a T -shaped ruler, used primarily in mechanical drawing, having a short crosspiece that slides along the edge of the drawing board as a guide to the perpendicular longer section in making parallel lines, right angles, etc., and as a support for triangles.

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T-square British  

noun

1. a T-shaped ruler used in mechanical drawing, consisting of a short crosspiece, which slides along the edge of the drawing board, and a long horizontal piece: used for drawing horizontal lines and to support set squares when drawing vertical and inclined lines

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Etymology

Origin of T square

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

This was before computer graphics or computer modeling, when architects and engineers worked on a drafting table with a T-square and slide rule.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 25, 2021

The Slide’s simple operation and high-tech sheen are a pleasing combination for anyone accustomed to drafting with the assistance of a humble T-square.

From Slate • Jun. 26, 2014

His working tools — backpack, easel, paints, brushes, folding stool, T-square, huge umbrella — are also on display, making vivid all the gear he lugged with him.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 30, 2012

Edward Ruscha, 27, limns with the same T-square edge precision that is the trademark of hard-edged pop.

From Time Magazine Archive

I preferred to ignore the world around me, obsessing only over what was in front of me: my T-square, my X-acto knife, my blue pencil.

From "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan