noun Uncommon

calibre

KAL-ih-buh

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Calibre (noun) means the internal diameter of a tube, especially the barrel of a gun, or the diameter of a bullet or shell. Example: “The rifle takes ammunition of a much smaller calibre than the pistol.”

noun

The internal diameter of a tube, especially the barrel of a gun, or the diameter of a bullet or shell.

"The rifle takes ammunition of a much smaller calibre than the pistol."

"Engineers measured the calibre of the pipe before ordering a replacement valve."

"Two guns of the same calibre can still fire different lengths of cartridge."

The level of ability, quality or importance that a person or thing has.

"The panel was impressed by the calibre of the candidates."

"You could tell from her questions alone that she was a scientist of real calibre."

"The festival attracts musicians of the highest calibre."

How to use calibre

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCalibre is either a measurement of width, as in a gun barrel, or a way of describing how skilled or impressive someone is.

When to use it

Calibre is the standard spelling across the UK and much of the Commonwealth; caliber is the American form of the same word.

Memory tip

If you are describing someone's skill or standing, calibre almost always follows an adjective such as 'high' or 'top'.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

high calibre large calibre small calibre a person of calibre

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Can you complete this real example?

The rifle takes ammunition of a much smaller _____ than the pistol.

Etymology

Calibre is the British and Commonwealth spelling of caliber, the same word simply written differently depending on where English is spoken. It is closely related to the verb calibrate, which means to check or adjust the accuracy of a measuring instrument.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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bore quality standard

Related words

law interest character quality normal standard condition stock

Rhymes for calibre

libre fibre

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Frequently asked questions

What does calibre mean?

It can mean the internal diameter of a gun barrel or bullet, or it can describe how good or capable someone or something is.

Is calibre the same word as caliber?

Yes. Calibre is the spelling used in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, while caliber is the American spelling of the same word.

How do you pronounce calibre?

It is said KAL-ih-buh, with the stress on the first syllable.

What is the meaning of calibre?

"calibre" (noun) means the internal diameter of a tube, especially the barrel of a gun, or the diameter of a bullet or shell.

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