| protractor | 1. One who, or that which, protracts, or causes protraction. 2. A mathematical instrument for laying down and measuring angles on paper, used in drawing or in plotting. It is of various forms, semicircular, rectangular, or circular. 3. <surgery> An instrument formerly used in extracting foreign or offensive matter from a wound. 4. <anatomy> A muscle which extends an organ or part; opposed to retractor. 5. An adjustable pattern used by tailors. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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