general, denotes the representation of something drawn on a plane; such are maps, charts, ichnographies, &c. See Map, Chart, &c.

The term plan, however, is particularly used for a draught of a building, such as it appears, or is intended to appear, on the ground, showing the extent, division, and distribution of its area or ground-plot into apartments, rooms, passages, &c.

A geometrical plan is that wherein the solid and vacant parts are represented in their natural proportions.

The raised plan of a building is the same with what is otherwise called an elevation or orthography. See Orthography.

A perspective plan is that exhibited by degradations or diminutions, according to the rules of perspective. See Perspective.

To render plans intelligible, it is usual to distinguish the masses with a black wash; the projections of the ground are drawn in full lines, and those supposed over them in dotted lines. The augmentations or alterations to be made are distinguished by a colour different from what is already built; and the tints of each plan made lighter as the stories are raised.

In large buildings it is usual to have three several plans for the three first stories.

Plancus, Francis, doctor of physic, was born at Amiens in 1666, and died on the 19th of September 1755, aged 69 years. He is the author of some works which have had considerable reputation. 1. A complete System of Surgery, in 2 vols in 12mo; a treatise much recommended by surgeons to their pupils. 2. A choice Library of Medicine, taken from periodical publications, both French and others: this curious collection, continued and completed by M. Goulin, makes 9 vols in 4to, or 18 vols in 12mo. 3. A Translation of Vander Wiel's Observations on Medicine and Surgery, 1758, 2 vols in 12mo. Plancus was also the editor of various editions of works on medicine and surgery, which he enriched with notes.