calibre

/ ˈkælɪbə /

noun

1. the diameter of a cylindrical body, esp the internal diameter of a tube or the bore of a firearm

2. the diameter of a shell or bullet

3. ability; distinction

   a musician of high calibre

4. personal character

   a man of high calibre

Other Word Forms

• calibred adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of calibre¹

C16: from Old French, from Italian calibro, from Arabic qālib shoemaker's last, mould

Example Sentences

Sometimes, it takes a player of Bonmati's calibre to make the difference in the pivotal moments - and that is what she did, getting the all-important goal in a knockout stage which was otherwise somewhat muted.

From BBC

The club are determined not to lose another talent of Ngumoha's calibre.

From BBC

He started a pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao on the left wing - and against that calibre of opposition he caught the eye, as he has done all summer.

From BBC

However, Australia say head coach Joe Schmidt will favour players at one of their four Super Rugby franchises if they are of "equal calibre" to an option outside their borders.

From BBC

One of the show's executive producers, Brian Constantine, said he was "thrilled" by the "fantastic calibre" of the new actors joining the show.

From BBC