An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

The component of a → planispheric astrolabe that is held against the → tympanum by the → horse, but can rotate freely in the → mater around the → pin to simulate the daily movement of the stars in the sky. It is the most characteristic part of the planispheric astrolabe.

Etymology (EN): From L. rete “net.”

Etymology (PE): Tanandu “spider,” from tanidan “to spin,” → tension; ankabut “spider,” loan from Arab.