Thermometer: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Greek words 'thermo', meaning heat, and 'metron', meaning measure.
• It was first used in the 17th century to describe devices that measured temperature.
• The concept of measuring temperature dates back to ancient civilizations, but the modern thermometer was developed much later.

Science

• Thermometers can be made of different materials like mercury, digital sensors, or alcohol in glass.
• Mercury thermometers were widely used until concerns about mercury’s toxicity led to the use of alcohol and digital alternatives.
• There are several types, including clinical thermometers for body temperature and meteorological thermometers for weather.

History

• In the early days, temperature was measured using devices like the thermoscope, which didn't have a scale.
• In 1714, Gabriel Fahrenheit invented a standardized thermometer that improved measurement accuracy.
• By the mid-19th century, the Celsius scale became popularized, allowing for easier scientific communication.

Cultural Impact

• Thermometers are essential tools not just for medicine but also for cooking, weather forecasting, and brewing beer.
• In some cultures, a temperature drop is associated with superstition, like predicting a storm.
• Pop culture references often involve thermometers in depicting illness, like classic cartoons showing a character with a thermometer in their mouth.

Technology

• Modern digital thermometers provide quick and accurate readings, often within seconds.
• Infrared thermometers can measure temperature from a distance, which has become particularly useful during health emergencies.
• Smart thermometers can sync with smartphones to track health trends and provide alerts.

Position #9,005 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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• 9002 inherently
• 9003 grammatical
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• 9005 thermometer
• 9006 roar
• 9007 eloquent
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