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ab-
ab initio
ab ovo
ABA
aba
abaca
abaci
aback
abacus
abada
Abadan
Abaddon
abafana
abaft
Abakan
ABAKO
abalone
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abacus

ab·a·cus [ ábbəkəss ] (plural ab·a·cus·es or ab·a·ci [ ábbə sī, ábbə kī ])


noun 
Definition:
 
1. counting device: a mechanical device for making calculations consisting of a frame mounted with rods along which beads or balls are moved

2. flat top of column: a flat slab at the top of an architectural column

[14th century. Via Latin< Greek abakos "board strewn with dust on which to draw or write" (later "slab, table")]
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