Illustrated Companion to the Latin Dictionary/Chelonium

Illustrated Companion to the Latin Dictionary, and Greek Lexicon (Rich, 1849)

CHELO'NIUM (χελώνιον). A bracket or collar affixed to the uprights of a certain machine for moving heavy weights (machina tractoria) at their lowest extremities, into which the pivot (cardo) of a revolving axle and wheel (sucula) was inserted; like that in which the axle of a plaustrum turned. Vitruv. x. 2. 2.

2. A collar of similar description, fastened to the top of an upright beam in another kind of contrivance for raising weights (polyspaston), to which the block and pullies (trochleae) were affixed. Vitruv. x. 2. 8.

3. A particular member in a catapulta; called also pulvinus. Vitruv. x. 10. 5.