Barometer
/bəˈrɒmɪtər/
Definitions
2 meaningsAn instrument that measures atmospheric pressure.
/bəˈrɒmɪtər/
Instrument measuring atmospheric pressure
The barometer reading indicated a high-pressure system.
💡 Simply: A tool that tells you how heavy the air is.
More Examples
We checked the barometer before deciding whether to go hiking.
How It's Used
"The barometer showed a sudden drop in atmospheric pressure, indicating an approaching storm."
"Scientists used a sensitive barometer to measure the air pressure at various altitudes."
Something that acts as an indicator or measure of something else.
/bəˈrɒmɪtər/
Indicator of something's state or trend
Consumer confidence is a barometer of economic activity.
💡 Simply: Something that shows how something else is doing.
More Examples
Sales figures serve as a barometer of the company's success.
How It's Used
"The stock market is often seen as a barometer of economic health."
From French *baromètre*, from Greek *baros* "weight" + *metron* "measure". Invented by Evangelista Torricelli in the 17th century.
Early uses focused on its scientific application in meteorology; later figurative use developed.
Memory tip
Think 'baro' for 'pressure' and 'meter' for 'measure'.