Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Calipers
Cal′i-pers
,Noun.
pl.
[Corrupted from
caliber
.] An instrument, usually resembling a pair of dividers or compasses with curved legs, for measuring the diameter or thickness of bodies, as of work shaped in a lathe or planer, timber, masts, shot, etc.; or the bore of firearms, tubes, etc.; – called also
caliper compasses
, or caliber compasses
. Caliper square
, a draughtsman’s or mechanic's square, having a graduated bar and adjustable jaw or jaws.
Knight.
– Vernier calipers
. See
Vernier
.Definition 2024
calipers
calipers
English
Calipers
Alternative forms
Noun
calipers pl (plural only)
- A device used to measure thickness between two surfaces, especially for small or precise measurements.
- 1902, Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness, section I,
- "Good, good for there," he mumbled, and then with a certain eagerness asked me whether I would let him measure my head. Rather surprised, I said Yes, when he produced a thing like calipers and got the dimensions back and front and every way, taking notes carefully.
- 1902, Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness, section I,
- (UK) A metal (orthopedic) leg support, US: leg braces.
Related terms
Translations
device used to measure thickness between two surfaces
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