thermometer

noun

ther·​mom·​e·​ter thər-ˈmä-mə-tər How to pronounce thermometer (audio)
thə-ˈmä-mə-tər
plural thermometers
: an instrument for determining temperature
specifically : one consisting of a sensor housed in a metal probe that registers a change in electrical resistance as a change in temperature
thermometric adjective
thermometrically adverb

Examples of thermometer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Roast until a thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 160°F, 2 hours to 2 hours, 30 minutes, uncovering turkey during last few minutes to crisp skin. Nicole Hopper, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2024 The watch draws inspiration from the futuristic architecture of the 1960s and 1970s and accordingly, has four rooms, or pods, each opening a window on a different function: time; power reserve; thermometer; and a crown for time setting. Carol Besler, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2024 This package includes the thermometer, regular and mini probes and the protective case. Kaila Yu, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Stock up on tissues and dig out your thermometer, cold and flu season is back. Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for thermometer 

Word History

Etymology

French thermomètre, from Greek thermē heat + French -o- + -mètre -meter — more at therm

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thermometer was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near thermometer

Cite this Entry

“Thermometer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thermometer. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

thermometer

noun
ther·​mom·​e·​ter thə(r)-ˈmäm-ət-ər How to pronounce thermometer (audio)
: an instrument for measuring temperature
thermometric adjective

Medical Definition

thermometer

noun
ther·​mom·​e·​ter thə(r)-ˈmäm-ət-ər How to pronounce thermometer (audio)
: an instrument for determining temperature that usually consists either of a device providing a digital readout or of a glass bulb attached to a fine tube of glass with a numbered scale and containing a liquid (as mercury or colored alcohol) that is sealed in and rises and falls with changes of temperature

More from Merriam-Webster on thermometer

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