barometer
buh-ROM-ih-tuh
Barometer (noun) means an instrument that measures atmospheric pressure, often used to forecast weather. Example: “The barometer was falling fast, which usually meant a storm was coming.”
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
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Word forms
- Plural
- barometers
Fill the gap
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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.
Class of 1665
barometer joined the language around 1665.
See the full Class of 1665 →
Rhymes for barometer
See all rhymes for barometer →Frequently asked questions
What does “barometer” mean?
The word “barometer” means an instrument that measures atmospheric pressure, often used to forecast weather. In plain terms, a device for measuring air pressure, or more broadly, anything that signals a change or trend.
How do you pronounce “barometer”?
“Barometer” is pronounced buh-ROM-ih-tuh (/bəˈɹɑ.mə.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “barometer” in a sentence?
Here is “barometer” used in a sentence: “The barometer was falling fast, which usually meant a storm was coming.”
What part of speech is “barometer”?
“Barometer” is a noun.
Where does the word “barometer” come from?
The word “barometer” dates back to around 1665 and comes from Greek. 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.
Is “barometer” a common word?
“Barometer” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “barometer” have?
“Barometer” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an instrument that measures atmospheric pressure, often used to forecast weather.
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