An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. A → grating of crossed bars; gridiron.
   

2. A → network of → horizontal and → perpendicular lines, uniformly spaced, for locating points on a map, chart, or aerial photograph by means of a system of coordinates.
   

3. Electricity: i) A metallic framework employed in a storage cell or battery for conducting the electric current and supporting the active material.
   ii) A system of electrical distribution serving a large area, especially by means of high-tension lines.

Etymology (EN): Shortening of gridiron “a utensil consisting of parallel metal bars on which to broil meat or other food,” from M.E. griderne, from gridel, from O.Fr. gredil, gridil, from L. craticula “gridiron, small griddle,” diminutive of cratis “wickerwork.”

Etymology (PE): Šabâk, from Laki šowâk “a net woven from goat fleece used for carrying chaff or fruits like melon,” variants šâvâk (Lori), šavak (Nahâvand).