1. instruments used for copying drawings or maps at a different scale by tracing the original
2. diamond-shaped frameworks on top of electric trains or trolleys that collect power from overhead wires
Usage: transportation; electrical engineering

Examples

• The architect used pantographs to create scaled versions of the building plans.
• Art students learned to operate pantographs for reproducing technical drawings.
• The electric train’s pantographs sparked as they made contact with the power lines.
• Railway maintenance crews regularly inspect pantographs for wear and damage.
• Modern pantographs are designed to maintain consistent contact with overhead cables.
• The cartographer employed pantographs to reduce the large survey map to book size.
• When the pantograph malfunctioned, the trolley lost power and came to a stop.