sundial

Definition

A device measuring the time of day by the position of a shadow cast by a pole or plate (gnomon) upon an engraved series of marks.

Etymology

From sun + dial, a clarification of dial after it was used for other objects as well.

Example Sentences

• "The birdbath includes a small gnomon that acts as a sundial with markings on the basin if it's aligned correctly with the sun."
• "Elbows almost touching they leaned at ease, idly reading the almost obliterated lines engraved there. "I never understood it," she observed, lightly scornful. "What occult meaning has a sun-dial for the spooney? I'm sure I don't want to read riddles in a strange gentleman's optics.""
• "The shop carries more than a dozen sundials, mostly of bronze, plus an astrolabe ($650) of wrought iron."