reticle

plural reticles

1. A transparent plate marked with a crosshair, grid, or scale which is used in an optical instrument, etc., to aid in alignment, counting, or measurement of objects being observed; also, the crosshair, grid, or scale on such a plate.

   Synonyms: graticule, reticule

2. A master or template, comprising a pattern of lines and shapes, used in photolithography to create the tiny integrated circuits on a microchip.

   Near-synonym: photomask (broadly synonymous in context)

   Synonyms: photomask[Appendix:Glossary

3. alternativeobsoleteAlternative form of reticule (“a little bag”).

   1 more example

   On the following day Mrs. Kent went into the bed-room; and laid a reticle, which contained the money, upon her bed; and afterwards returned into the sitting-room; leaving the door between that and the bed-room open. After she had remained in the sitting-room about five minutes, she sent Miss S. for the reticle; and it was not to be found.

   1833, Francis Vesey, A General Digested Table and Index of Cases Argued and Determined in the High Court of Chancery, volume 20, page ix