noun

analogue

AN-uh-lawg/ˈænʌlˌɔɡ/

Something similar to another thing in structure or function.

The mechanical hand is an analogue of a human hand in form and function.

Mechanical human-hand prosthesis beside natural adult hand in same open-palm pose, corresponding fingers and joints clearly comparable in form/function; cropped wrists only, no labels.

Etymology

The pieces express correspondence according to a ratio or proportion. This idea of proportional matching underlies the meaning of a counterpart with a comparable form or function.

In context

nptelhrd7:46

this is C 5 Me 5 minus the per methylated analogue of cyclopentadiene

Mod-06 Lec-26 η6 arene Metal complexes

More examples

This ancient tool has a modern analogue in the workshop.
The committee searches for a historical analogue to the crisis.
Several natural analogues help explain the laboratory model.

Forms

analogue · analogues

Similar words

counterpart: Suggests a corresponding role rather than structural resemblance.
equivalent: More strongly implies equal function or value.