chronometer

[ kruh-nom-i-ter ]

noun

1. a timepiece or timing device with a special mechanism for ensuring and adjusting its accuracy, for use in determining longitude at sea or for any purpose where very exact measurement of time is required.
2. any timepiece, especially a wristwatch, designed for the highest accuracy.

chronometer

/ krəˈnɒmɪtə; ˌkrɒnəˈmɛtrɪk /

noun

1. a timepiece designed to be accurate in all conditions of temperature, pressure, etc, used esp at sea

chronometer

/ krə-nŏm′ĭ-tər /

1. An extremely accurate clock or other timepiece. Chronometers are used in scientific experiments, navigation, and astronomical observations. It was the invention of a chronometer capable of being used aboard ship, in 1762, that allowed navigators for the first time to accurately determine their longitude at sea.

Derived Forms

• ˌchronoˈmetrically, adverb
• chronometric, adjective

Other Words From

• chron·o·met·ric [kron-, uh, -, me, -trik], chrono·metri·cal adjective
• chrono·metri·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of chronometer¹

First recorded in 1705–15; chrono- + -meter

Example Sentences

In about two hours afterward the watches and chronometer recommenced going, and the compasses resumed their position.

From Project Gutenberg

But the terrible question was, how near right is the chronometer?

From Project Gutenberg

He looked at the chronometer on the wall—he had slept twelve hours!

From Project Gutenberg

The sweep hand on the chronometer made its rounds several times before he answered.

From Project Gutenberg

In the words of a reporter, the place is equally capable of turning out a 'chronometer or a Cunard steamer.'

From Project Gutenberg