Altigraph

/ˈæltɪɡræf/ noun

Definition

A scientific instrument that measures and records altitude or elevation changes over time, similar to an altimeter with recording capability.

Etymology

From Latin altus (high) plus Greek -graph (to write/record), creating a word meaning 'altitude writer.' It's a technical instrument name following the pattern of barograph and thermograph.

Kelly Says

An altigraph is to altitude what a thermograph is to temperature—it records data continuously on paper, creating a visual history; today they're replaced by digital sensors, but the naming pattern still appears in modern instruments like electrocardiograph.

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