slipstick: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low / ArchaicInformal, Technical Slang (dated), Historical
Quick answer
What does “slipstick” mean?
A colloquial or slang term for a slide rule, a mechanical analog computer used primarily for multiplication, division, and other mathematical functions.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A colloquial or slang term for a slide rule, a mechanical analog computer used primarily for multiplication, division, and other mathematical functions.
Informally, it can refer to any outdated or analog calculating device, or metaphorically to a person who is very skilled at mental or analog calculation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage was likely more common in American engineering and technical slang. The term is equally archaic in both varieties.
Connotations
Nostalgic, quaint, technically proficient from a pre-digital era.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary use, found primarily in historical contexts or reminiscences.
Grammar
How to Use “slipstick” in a Sentence
use [a/the] slipstickcalculate [something] on [a/the] slipstickbe handy with [a] slipstickVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “slipstick” in a Sentence
verb
American English
- "I'll slipstick that figure for you," the veteran engineer said.
adjective
American English
- He had a slipstick mentality, preferring analog precision.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Only in historical discussions of science, technology, or engineering.
Everyday
Extremely unlikely.
Technical
Historical/archaic term in engineering, physics, and related fields.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “slipstick”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “slipstick”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “slipstick”
- Spelling as 'slip stick' (two words).
- Confusing it with a literal sticky substance.
- Using it in a modern context where 'calculator' or 'software' is meant.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an archaic term. Electronic calculators and computers replaced slide rules ('slipsticks') in the 1970s.
There is no difference. 'Slipstick' is simply a colloquial or slang term for a slide rule.
Primarily, no. Its core meaning is the slide rule. Very rarely, it might be used metaphorically for a person skilled in analog calculation.
It's a playful compound of 'slip' (referring to the sliding cursor or central strip) and 'stick' (referring to the ruler-like body).
A colloquial or slang term for a slide rule, a mechanical analog computer used primarily for multiplication, division, and other mathematical functions.
Slipstick is usually informal, technical slang (dated), historical in register.
Slipstick: in British English it is pronounced /ˈslɪpstɪk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈslɪpˌstɪk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[To be] a slipstick artist: To be highly skilled at using a slide rule.”
- “The slipstick generation: Those who were trained before electronic calculators.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the cursor that 'slips' along the 'stick' to give you an answer.
Conceptual Metaphor
TOOL FOR THINKING IS A PHYSICAL SLIDER (The abstract process of calculation is conceptualized as the physical movement of a cursor along scales).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the term 'slipstick' be most appropriately used today?