An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

An ancient instrument, used since ancient times until the Middle ages and later, to determine positions of celestial bodies. It consisted of an assemblage of rings, all circles of the same sphere, designed to represent the positions of the important circles of the celestial sphere.

Etymology (EN): L. armillarius, from armilla “arm ring, bracelet,” from armus “arm” + → sphere.

Etymology (PE): Zâtolhelaq from Ar. “multi-ringed,” from zât “holder, keeper”

• helaq “rings,” from halqah “ring.”