hectograph
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhɛktəˌɡræf/
KK: /ˈhɛktəˌgræf/
noun
Definition
A device used to create copies of written or drawn material by using a gelatin surface coated with glycerin.
Example
The teacher used a hectograph to make copies of the exam for all the students.
Conversation
Have you ever used a hectograph for your school projects?
No, I haven't. What is it exactly?
It's a machine that makes copies of typed or written material on a gelatin surface.
That sounds interesting! I would love to try one out.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
duplicator
copier
reproducer
Antonyms
original
source
prototype
transitive verb
Definition
To make a copy of something using a special printing process that involves a gelatin surface.
Example
The teacher used a hectograph to create copies of the exam for the students.
Tense Forms
Past: hectographed
Past Participle: hectographed
Conversation
Have you ever tried to hectograph your notes for class?
No, I haven't! How does that even work?
It's pretty simple; you just copy them using a special ink and paper.
Root Explanation
Hectograph → It is formed from "hecto-" (from Greek "hekaton", meaning hundred) and "graph" (from Greek "grapho", meaning to write). The word refers to a device that can produce a hundred copies of a written document.
Memory Tip
Think of 'hecto-' meaning 'hundred' and 'graph' meaning 'to write' — a hectograph is a tool that helps you make a hundred copies of your writing.
Visually Confused Words
vectograph
hyetograph
hyetography
helicograph
cecograph
vectographic
theatrograph
spectrograph