slipstick n analog computer consisting of a handheld instrument used for rapid calculations; have been replaced by pocket calculators Usage(s) Ambitious workersfrom hard-hat musclemen to round-shouldered slipstick artists were already clamoring to work under the Brooklyn-born straw boss. It is the scientist with his slipstick who measures the effects of untried weapons in future battles. At Cal and Cal Tech, Oppie had been at home with the blackboard and the slipstick. Synonym(s) slide rule