goniometer

[goh-nee-om-i-ter]

noun

1. an instrument for measuring solid angles, as of crystals.

goniometer

/ ˌɡəʊnɪˈɒmɪtə, ˌɡəʊnɪəˈmɛtrɪk /

noun

1. an instrument for measuring the angles between the faces of a crystal

2. an instrument consisting of a transformer circuit connected to two directional aerials, used to determine the bearing of a distant radio station

Other Word Forms

• goniometry noun
• goniometrically adverb
• goniometric adjective
• goniometrical adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of goniometer¹

First recorded in 1760–70; gonio- + -meter

Word History and Origins

Origin of goniometer¹

C18: via French from Greek gōnia angle

Example Sentences

Several forms of instruments depending on this principle have been devised, the earliest being the vertical-circle goniometer of W. H. Wollaston, made in 1809.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

He had dreamt vaguely, unsubstantially, the while he had arranged his pressures and temperatures and infinitesimal ingredients, and worked with goniometer and trial models and the new calculating machine he had contrived for his research.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

We bought a goniometer, and Dr. Wollaston, who often dined with us, taught Somerville and me how to use it, by measuring the angles of many of our crystals during the evening.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

I'll bet you a small farm against a plugged nickel that right now he's working his goniometer so hard that it's pivots are getting hot.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

Wollaston in 1812, with the aid of his newly invented reflective goniometer, to be 74� 55′.

Read more on Project Gutenberg