absolute scale

noun

: a temperature scale that is based on absolute zero and that uses units of measurement equivalent to centigrade degrees on the Kelvin scale or to Fahrenheit degrees on the Rankine scale

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of absolute scale was in 1848

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Cite this Entry

“Absolute scale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absolute%20scale. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.

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