analog

/ˈænəˌlɒɡ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: analogs

Sense 1

Meaning · English

In which the value of a data item (such as time) is represented by a continuous(ly) variable physical quantity that can be measured (such as the shadow of a sundial).

Adjective

Examples

an analog watch

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Not relating to, or pre-dating, digital technology such as computers and the Internet; relating to real life.

Adjective

Examples

an analog (paper) map

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Something that bears an analogy to something else.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

An organ or structure that is similar in function to one in another kind of organism but is of dissimilar evolutionary origin.

Noun

Examples

See also: convergent evolution

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “analog” mean?

In which the value of a data item (such as time) is represented by a continuous(ly) variable physical quantity that can be measured (such as the shadow of a sundial).

Is “analog” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.