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Micrometer: meaning, definitions and examples

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micrometer

 

[ ˈmaɪ.krəˌmɪt̬.ɚ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

measurement tool

A micrometer is a device used to measure very small distances with high precision. It typically consists of a calibrated screw that is rotated to advance a spindle with a finely engraved scale. Micrometers are commonly used in mechanical engineering, machining, and metrology.

Synonyms

caliper, micronometer, thickness gauge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
micrometer

Used in mechanical engineering and machining to measure very small distances or thicknesses with high accuracy.

  • The engineer used a micrometer to measure the diameter of the small rod.
  • Precision work often requires a micrometer for accurate measurements.
caliper

Used to measure the distance between two opposite sides of an object. Commonly used in mechanical engineering, woodworking, and metalworking.

  • The carpenter used a caliper to check the width of the plank.
  • Digital calipers can provide quick and accurate readings.
micronometer

A less common term, typically interchangeable with micrometer. Used in various fields to measure small distances, often at the micron level. Also used in precision instrumentation and research settings.

  • Scientists often use a micronometer for measuring microscopic objects.
  • The micronometer revealed that the sample was just a few microns thick.
thickness gauge

Used specifically to measure the thickness of materials, such as paper, metal, or coating layers. Common in manufacturing and quality control settings.

  • The factory worker used a thickness gauge to ensure the metal sheets were within the specified tolerance.
  • For measuring paint layers, a thickness gauge is essential.

Examples of usage

  • The machinist used a micrometer to measure the thickness of the metal sheet.
  • The scientist used a micrometer to determine the diameter of the microscopic particles.

Translations

Translations of the word "micrometer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 micrômetro

🇮🇳 माइक्रोमीटर

🇩🇪 Mikrometer

🇮🇩 mikrometer

🇺🇦 мікрометр

🇵🇱 mikrometr

🇯🇵 マイクロメートル

🇫🇷 micromètre

🇪🇸 micrómetro

🇹🇷 mikrometre

🇰🇷 마이크로미터

🇸🇦 ميكرومتر

🇨🇿 mikrometr

🇸🇰 mikrometer

🇨🇳 微米

🇸🇮 mikrometer

🇮🇸 míkrómetri

🇰🇿 микрометр

🇬🇪 მიკრომეტრი

🇦🇿 mikrometr

🇲🇽 micrómetro

Etymology

The word 'micrometer' originated from the Greek words 'mikros', meaning small, and 'metron', meaning measure. The concept of the micrometer as a measuring tool was first introduced in the 17th century by William Gascoigne, an English astronomer. Over the centuries, the design and precision of micrometers have evolved, making them essential instruments in various fields of science and engineering.

See also: centimeter, meter, metronome, micronometer.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,832, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.