calibration

[kal-uh-brey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act or process of determining, checking, or rectifying the settings or gradations on a measuring instrument or other piece of precision equipment; the resulting condition of the equipment.

   I took the copter down to the beach to do the compass calibration, so as to be absolutely sure there was no metal around when I did it.

2. the act or process of marking a measuring instrument with the necessary gradations; the resulting markings or settings.

   Our measuring cups are designed with calibrations on the side so that exact measurement can be given.

3. the act or process of planning or devising something carefully so as to have a precise use, application, appeal, etc..

   He advocated for the calibration of fiscal policy to balance growth needs and minimize debt.

4. the act or process of determining the correct range for an artillery gun, mortar, etc., by observing where the projectile hits.

   The field regiment moved to a deserted area to carry out a shoot for the calibration of every gun.

Other Word Forms

• intercalibration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of calibration¹

calibr(ate) + -ation ( def. )

Example Sentences

NHS England says fewer than 10% of their laboratories were affected and all have either replaced the machines or addressed calibration issues.

Read more on BBC

The data gathered in the program applies to ecology, weather, oceanography, soil science, biology and satellite calibration/validation research.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It simply made the announcement as soon as its own calibrations had been finalised.

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"In physics, standards are used as fixed reference points for the precise measurement of physical quantities and the calibration of measuring instruments," says Gould.

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"Discovery of these minute fossils tells us this group of insects has been in Aotearoa New Zealand for at least 15 million years. This provides a well-dated calibration point for molecular phylogenetic studies."

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Related Words

• amount 
• analysis 
• appraisal 
• assessment 
• density 
• dimension 
• evaluation 
• frequency 
• height 
• measure 
• size 
• survey 
• weight