analog
analog Lexical Profile
analog Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Relating to or using signals or information represented by a continuously variable physical quantity, such as spatial position or voltage, rather than discrete digital values.
"Many audiophiles still prefer the warm sound of analog recording equipment over modern software."
Showing the time by means of physical hands on a numbered dial rather than through displayed digits.
"The classroom had a traditional analog clock mounted above the chalkboard."
Not involving or relating to the use of computer technology or the internet; traditional and physical.
"She keeps an analog planner made of paper to avoid staring at screens all day."
• noun
American A person or thing that is comparable to or functions as a counterpart to another.
"Researchers are studying deep-sea vents on Earth as a possible analog for environments on icy moons."
American A chemical compound that is structurally similar to another but differs slightly in composition, often used in pharmaceuticals.
"The laboratory synthesized a safer synthetic analog of the naturally occurring hormone."
American In biology, an organ or structure that performs a similar function to one in another species but has a different evolutionary origin.
"The wing of an insect is a functional analog to the wing of a bird."
Word Nuance & Usage
In British English, the spelling 'analogue' is standard for the noun sense meaning a counterpart, though 'analog' is widely accepted globally when referring to non-digital electronics.
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from French 'analogue', from Latin 'analogus', and ultimately from Ancient Greek 'analogos' meaning 'proportionate' or 'according to ratio'.