Crystograph

/ˈkɹɪs.təˌɡræf/ noun

Definition

An instrument or method used to write, draw, or record information about crystals and their structures.

Etymology

From Greek 'krystallos' (crystal) combined with '-graph' (from 'graphein', meaning 'to write'), following the pattern of scientific instruments like 'seismograph' and 'thermograph'.

Kelly Says

The '-graph' ending literally means 'something that writes or records'—crystallographers use X-ray crystallography today to 'write' the atomic structure of crystals, making this ancient term prophetically accurate.

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