Phonograph

n. (fo-nograf.) [Gr. phōnē, sound, graph ein, to write.) An instrument invented by Edison, consisting of amounted diaphragm, so fixed as to operate a stylus, and a cylinder mounted on an axis, extending each way beyond its ends; a spiral groove is cut into the circumference of the cylinder from end to end. The cylinder is smoothly covered with tin-foil, the stylus pre ing gently against that part of the foil over the groove. The crank is now turned, while some one speaks against the diaphragm, which causes it to vibrate against the foil, which becomes impre ed with [s. 980]