calliper

British  

/ ˈkælɪpə /

noun

1. Also called: calliper compasses.  (often plural) an instrument for measuring internal or external dimensions, consisting of two steel legs hinged together

2. Also called: calliper splint.  med a splint consisting of two metal rods with straps attached, for supporting or exerting tension on the leg

---

verb

1. (tr) to measure the dimensions of (an object) with callipers

Etymology

Origin of calliper

C16: variant of _calibre

Example Sentences

"My father heard Dave on the radio talking about how he used to wear a calliper as a child for his club foot," she told the BBC.

From BBC • Nov. 29, 2020

But don't think it's gone too la-di-da – there's still plenty to appeal to your lairy side: 17in alloys, red calliper brakes and chromed twin exhausts.

From The Guardian • Jul. 7, 2013

In particular he secured a specimen of the calliper butterfly, "remarkable for having on each hind wing two curved tails like a pair of callipers."

From A Visit to Java With an Account of the Founding of Singapore by Worsfold, W. Basil (William Basil)

In fractures of the shaft an ordinary Thomas' knee splint, or a “walking calliper splint” which is fixed to the heel of the boot, may be worn when the patient gets up.

From Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities—Head—Neck. Sixth Edition. by Miles, Alexander