Calibration: meaning, definitions and examples

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calibration

[ˌkalɪˈbreɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

measurement

Calibration is the process of adjusting or measuring the accuracy of a device or instrument by comparing it with a known standard. It ensures that the measurements taken by the device are reliable and accurate.

Synonyms

adjustment, alignment, standardization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
calibration	Typically used in scientific and technical settings to describe the process of adjusting and setting instruments or measurements for accuracy. The lab technician performed a calibration of the equipment to ensure precise results. We need to calibrate the thermometer before starting the experiment.
adjustment	Used in everyday situations to describe minor changes made to improve or correct something. He made an adjustment to the chair to make it more comfortable. I need to make some adjustments to my schedule.
standardization	Used in industrial, business, or regulatory settings to describe the process of implementing and adhering to consistent practices or benchmarks. Standardization of procedures is important for maintaining quality control. The industry has moved towards the standardization of safety protocols.
alignment	Often used in mechanical or organizational contexts to describe the proper positioning or arrangement of parts or concepts to ensure they work together correctly. The mechanic checked the car's alignment after replacing the tires. We need to ensure alignment between our goals and our activities.

Examples of usage

The calibration of the thermometer was performed to ensure accurate temperature readings.
Regular calibration of the scales is necessary to maintain precision in weight measurements.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

technology

In technology, calibration refers to the process of adjusting or setting equipment to ensure its accuracy and precision. It is essential in various fields such as electronics, engineering, and manufacturing.

Synonyms

adjustment, fine-tuning, setting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
calibration	Used when you need to measure or correct the settings of a device to make it accurate. Often used in scientific or technical fields. The microscope requires precise calibration before use. The engineer spent hours on the calibration of the measuring instruments.
adjustment	Used in everyday situations when something needs to be changed or corrected to achieve a desired result. It is less specific than 'calibration.' She made a quick adjustment to her glasses. The seat needs adjustment for a more comfortable ride.
fine-tuning	Used when making very small adjustments to improve the performance or quality of something. Often used in contexts where precision and detail are crucial. The musician spent hours fine-tuning his guitar before the concert. The software developer is fine-tuning the app to make it faster.
setting	Used to describe the position or value of a control or adjustment on a device or system. Often refers to user-selectable options. Make sure you have the temperature setting on the oven correct. I adjusted the settings on my phone for better battery life.

Examples of usage

The calibration of the machine tools was crucial to maintain the quality of the produced parts.
Proper calibration of the sensors is necessary for accurate data collection.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from Latin 'calibratio', which means 'to check' or 'to measure'.
It originated in the late 19th century when precision measurement technology began to develop.
The prefix 'calibr' relates to calibrating angles, highlighting the importance of precision.

Science

In metrology, calibration is essential for obtaining accurate measurements. It ensures that instruments provide reliable data.
Scientific instruments like thermometers or scales need regular calibration to maintain accuracy, especially in laboratories.
Calibration affects everything from weather forecasting to producing medicines, as accuracy is vital in these fields.

Technology

Modern smartphones have sensors that require calibration to ensure the display and orientation work correctly.
In robotics, calibration adjusts the movements of machines to ensure they operate as intended.
3D printers regularly need calibration to ensure that they produce objects with the right measurements.

Education

Teaching students about calibration can enhance their understanding of scientific measurements and technology.
Many educational programs include calibration exercises to help students grasp practical applications of mathematical concepts.
In workshops, instructors often demonstrate the calibration of instruments to emphasize the importance of precise measurements.

Industry

In manufacturing, inaccurate calibration can lead to defects, impacting the quality of products.
Automotive industries often calibrate their equipment to ensure safety standards in vehicle production.
Calibration processes are regulated by standards organizations to maintain uniformity and safety across industries.

Translations

Translations of the word "calibration" in other languages:

🇵🇹 calibração

🇮🇳 अंशांकन

🇩🇪 Kalibrierung

🇮🇩 kalibrasi

🇺🇦 калібрування

🇵🇱 kalibracja

🇯🇵 校正 (こうせい)

🇫🇷 étalonnage

🇪🇸 calibración

🇹🇷 kalibrasyon

🇰🇷 교정 (교정)

🇸🇦 معايرة

🇨🇿 kalibrace

🇸🇰 kalibrácia

🇨🇳 校准 (校准)

🇸🇮 kalibracija

🇮🇸 stilla

🇰🇿 калибрлеу

🇬🇪 კალიბრაცია

🇦🇿 kalibrləmə

🇲🇽 calibración

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,058 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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7055 alpha
7056 terminology
7057 sunshine
7058 calibration
7059 baseball
7060 dietary
7061 guiding
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