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Definition of calibration

calibration

/ˌkæl.əˈbreɪ.ʃən/
cal · i · bra · tion

Plural:calibrations
•
Adjective:calibrational
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calibration Lexical Profile

calibration Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The process of checking, adjusting, or standardizing the accuracy of a measuring instrument by comparing its readings with an established reference standard.

Example

"Regular calibration of the laboratory scales ensures that every chemical measurement remains precise."


2

A careful assessment or adjustment of a strategy, policy, or behavior to suit specific circumstances or achieve a desired balance.

Example

"Successful diplomacy requires a delicate calibration of firmness and compromise."


3

A set of graduations or markings on an instrument that indicate specific values or units of measurement.

Example

"The worn calibrations along the side of the glass beaker made it difficult to read the exact volume of liquid."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for calibration

• Rhymes for calibration

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century as a noun of action from 'calibrate', which derives from 'caliber' (originally meaning the internal diameter of a tube or gun barrel), borrowed via French and Italian from Arabic 'qalib', meaning a shoemaker's last or mold.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Calibration. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/calibration
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