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Napier's bones
noun
, (used with a singular verb)
- a form of multiplication table originally marked on sticks of bone or ivory that could be rearranged to carry out the operations of multiplication or division.
Napier's bones
plural noun
- a set of graduated rods formerly used for multiplication and division
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Word History and Origins
Origin of Napier's bones1
First recorded in 1650–60; after their developer, J. Napier
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Word History and Origins
Origin of Napier's bones1
C17: based on a method invented by John Napier
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