noun
barometer
buh-ROM-ih-tuh
noun
1
An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure, often used to forecast weather.
"The barometer was falling fast, which usually meant a storm was coming."
2
Something used to gauge or indicate a trend or condition.
"Consumer confidence is often seen as a barometer of the wider economy."
How to Use Barometer
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA device for measuring air pressure, or more broadly, anything that signals a change or trend.
Common pairings
barometer of public opinion
rising barometer
economic barometer
Word Forms
barometers plural
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The _____ was falling fast, which usually meant a storm was coming.
Etymology
Coined in 1665 by the scientist Robert Boyle from Greek roots meaning "weight" and "measure," to name the instrument Torricelli had invented about twenty years earlier.