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vernier

1

[ vur-nee-er ]

noun

  1. Also vernier scale. a small, movable, graduated scale running parallel to the fixed graduated scale of a sextant, theodolite, barometer, etc., and used for measuring a fractional part of one of the divisions of the fixed scale.
  2. Machinery. an auxiliary device for giving a piece of apparatus a higher adjustment accuracy.


adjective

  1. equipped with a vernier:

    a vernier barometer.

Vernier

2

[ vur-nee-er; French ver-nyey ]

noun

  1. Pierre [pye, r], 1580–1637, French mathematician and inventor.

vernier

/ ˈvɜːnɪə /

noun

  1. a small movable scale running parallel to the main graduated scale in certain measuring instruments, such as theodolites, used to obtain a fractional reading of one of the divisions on the main scale
  2. an auxiliary device for making a fine adjustment to an instrument, usually by means of a fine screw thread
  3. modifier relating to or fitted with a vernier

    a vernier scale

    a vernier barometer



Vernier

/ vĕr-nyā /

  1. French mathematician and maker of scientific instruments, known especially for his invention of an auxiliary scale (named after him) used for obtaining a highly precise reading of a subdivision of an ordinary scale.


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Word History and Origins

Origin of vernier1

First recorded in 1760–70; named after P. Vernier

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Word History and Origins

Origin of vernier1

C18: named after Paul Vernier (1580–1637), French mathematician, who described the scale

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Example Sentences

The inner vernier is then set to the right ascension of the object which it is desired to observe.

"I really don't know how I shall get through to-morrow," she had said to Madame Vernier.

"Who mean to win our tricks," said Vernier, long used to the ways of commercial travellers and to their periodical visits.

When Madame Vernier heard the name of the lunatic she raised her head and looked at her husband.

Monsieur and Madame Vernier played their part so well that Gaudissart had no suspicions, and straightway fell into the trap.

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