Accelerograph

/ˌæksɛlərəˈɡræf/ noun

Definition

An instrument that records the accelerations of the ground or a structure, especially during earthquakes.

Etymology

From accelero- (combining form from accelerate) + -graph (from Greek graphein, 'to write or record'). This scientific compound was created in the 20th century to name a device used in seismology and structural engineering.

Kelly Says

Accelerographs were crucial inventions for earthquake science—they revealed that the ground doesn't just move during earthquakes, but accelerates in complex patterns that buildings must withstand, fundamentally changing how engineers design structures!

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