hygroscope

[Pref. hugro-, and Gr. skopeō =to observe.] An instrument for indicating the degree of moisture in the atmosphere. hy-gro-scop-Ic, hy-gro-scop-Ic-al, a. [Eng. hygroscop (e); -ic, -ical.] 1. Of or pertaining to the hygroscope; indicated or detected by the hygroscope. 2. Having the property or quality of imbibing moisture from the atmosphere, or of becoming coated with a film of moisture. "More information as to the hygroscopic condition of the atmosphere is needed." -London Athenœum. hy-gro-sco-pic-1-ty, s . [English hygroscopic ; -ity . ] The property of extending when water is applied, and shrinking when it is withdrawn. hy-gro-stăt-Ics, s . [Greek hygros =wet, statikē epistēme =statics, histemi to stand.] The science of comparing or measuring degrees of moisture. hy-lạ, s. [Lat. hyle ; Gr. hyle =a wood, a forest.] Zool .: Tree Frog. The typical genus of the family Hylide (q.v.). Hyla arborea is found in continental Europe. hy-la-dæ, s. pl. [HYLIDE.]