noun B2 Upper-Intermediate

micrometer

my-KRAH-mih-ter

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Micrometer (noun) means a device for measuring distances very precisely over a small range, especially thickness, depth and diameter. Example: “The engineer checked the width of the shaft with a micrometer.”

noun

A device for measuring distances very precisely over a small range, especially thickness, depth and diameter.

"The engineer checked the width of the shaft with a micrometer."

"A micrometer is more accurate than a ruler for measuring thin wire."

"He calibrated the micrometer before measuring the parts."

A unit of length equal to one millionth of a meter.

"A human hair is roughly seventy micrometers wide."

"The filter catches particles larger than two micrometers."

"The coating is only a few micrometers thick."

How to use micrometer

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA tool for measuring tiny thicknesses precisely, or a unit equal to one millionth of a meter.

When to use it

Both senses are technical and suit engineering and scientific writing.

Memory tip

In British English the unit is spelled micrometre, while the measuring tool keeps the spelling micrometer.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

millimeter →

Common pairings

digital micrometer outside micrometer measure with a micrometer a few micrometers thick

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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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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The engineer checked the width of the shaft with a _____.

Etymology

The measuring device took its name from the French word micromètre, which combines micro- and -meter. The unit is a separate formation from micro-, meaning one millionth, and meter.

Origin: French

Synonyms

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micron

Related words

breve

Rhymes for micrometer

meter Peter deter Jeter ureter dieter ammeter quieter skeeter odometer diameter catheter

See all rhymes for micrometer →

Frequently asked questions

What is a micrometer used for?

A micrometer is used to measure small distances very precisely, such as the thickness, depth or diameter of an object.

What is a micrometer in units?

A micrometer is a unit of length equal to one millionth of a meter. British English spells the unit micrometre.

How do you pronounce micrometer?

In American English the device is pronounced my-KRAH-mih-ter, with the stress on the second syllable.

What is the meaning of micrometer?

"micrometer" (noun) means a device for measuring distances very precisely over a small range, especially thickness, depth and diameter.

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