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Definition of micrometer

micrometer

/maɪˈkrɑːmɪtər/
(UK: micrometre)
mi · crom · e · ter

Plural:micrometers
•
Adjective:micrometric
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micrometer Lexical Profile

micrometer Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A unit of length in the International System of Units (SI) equal to one millionth of a meter.

Example

"Human hair typically ranges from 17 to 181 micrometers in thickness."


2

A precision measuring instrument used by engineers and machinists to measure very small distances or thicknesses, typically incorporating a finely threaded screw.

Example

"The machinist used a micrometer to ensure the metal shaft was manufactured to the exact required diameter."

Word Nuance & Usage

The pronunciation typically shifts depending on the meaning: as an instrument, it is stressed on the second syllable (my-CROM-ih-ter), whereas as a unit of length, it is often stressed on the first syllable (MY-cro-mee-ter).

• Rhymes for micrometer

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 17th century from French 'micromètre', derived from the Greek 'mikros' (small) and 'metron' (measure).

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Micrometer. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/micrometer
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