Reticle
/ˈrɛtɪkəl/noun
A network of fine lines, dots, or crosshairs used for measurement, aiming, or locating objects in an optical instrument.
Did you know?Early reticles were physical webs or thread grids placed inside optical instruments, preserving the word’s original image of a tiny net.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ned-
“To bind, tie, or connect; the proposed ancient root behind the imagery of nets and related binding words.”
Classical Latin
Latin
rēte
“A net or network.”
Classical Latin
Latin
reticulum
“A small net; the diminutive form of rēte.”
16th Century
French
réticule
“A small net or network; later used for a grid or mesh in optical and scientific contexts.”
17th Century
English
reticle
“A network or grating used in instruments for measurement or aiming.”
Modern English
English
reticle
“A set of fine lines, dots, or crosshairs in an optical device.”