Waldo

/ˈwɔːldoʊ/ proper noun

Definition

A given name meaning 'ruler' or 'powerful,' also referring to remote manipulator devices in robotics and the character in 'Where's Waldo?' books.

Etymology

From Germanic wald meaning 'rule' or 'power.' The robotics term comes from Robert Heinlein's 1942 story 'Waldo,' about remote-controlled mechanical hands, which gave the name to real-world teleoperation devices.

Kelly Says

Science fiction became science fact when Heinlein's fictional 'waldoes' inspired real remote manipulator arms used in nuclear facilities and space missions. The playful 'Where's Waldo?' character shares this name meaning 'ruler,' though he's more famous for hiding than leading!

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