spar, tourmaline, etc. Positive degree (Gram.), that state of an adjective or adverb which denotes
simple quality, without comparison or relation to increase or diminution; as, wise, noble. Positive
electricity (Elec), the kind of electricity which is developed when glass is rubbed with silk, or which
appears at that pole of a voltaic battery attached to the plate that is not attacked by the exciting liquid;
formerly called vitreous electricity; opposed to negative electricity. Positive eyepiece. See
under Eyepiece. Positive law. See Municipal law, under Law. Positive motion (Mach.),
motion which is derived from a driver through unyielding intermediate pieces, or by direct contact, and
not through elastic connections, nor by means of friction, gravity, etc.; definite motion. Positive philosophy.
See Positivism. Positive pole. (a) (Elec.) The pole of a battery or pile which yields positive or
vitreous electricity; opposed to negative pole. (b) (Magnetism) The north pole. [R.] Positive
quantity (Alg.), an affirmative quantity, or one affected by the sign plus [+]. Positive rotation
(Mech.), left-handed rotation. Positive sign (Math.), the sign [+] denoting plus, or more, or addition.
Positive
(Pos"i*tive), n.
1. That which is capable of being affirmed; reality. South.
2. That which settles by absolute appointment.
3. (Gram.) The positive degree or form.
4. (Photog.) A picture in which the lights and shades correspond in position with those of the original,
instead of being reversed, as in a negative. R. Hunt.
5. (Elec.) The positive plate of a voltaic or electrolytic cell.
Positively
(Pos"i*tive*ly), adv. In a positive manner; absolutely; really; expressly; with certainty; indubitably; peremptorily; dogmatically;
opposed to negatively.
Good and evil which is removed may be esteemed good or evil comparatively, and positively simply.
Bacon.
Give me some breath, some little pause, my lord,
Before I positively speak herein.
Shak.
I would ask . . . whether . . . the divine law does not positively require humility and meekness.
Sprat. Positively charged or electrified (Elec.), having a charge of positive electricity; opposed to negatively
electrified.