# reticle

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈɹɛtɪkəl/ · frequency rank #59,670

## Definitions
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.
2. A master or template, comprising a pattern of lines and shapes, used in photolithography to create the tiny integrated circuits on a microchip.
3. Alternative form of reticule (“a little bag”).

## Etymology
Borrowed from Late Latin rēticulum, diminutive of Latin rēte (“net”). Doublet of reticulum, Reticulum, and reticule.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/reticle