Meaning & Definition of word "Measure"

Measure

/ˈmɛʒər/

noun:

  • 1. A unit or standard of measurement.
    • Example: We need to find a suitable measure for the height of the building.
  • 2. An action taken to achieve a particular purpose.
    • Example: The government introduced new measures to improve public health.
  • 3. The extent, quantity, or degree of something.
    • Example: He did not receive the measure of respect he deserved.

verb:

  • 1. To ascertain the size, amount, or degree of something.
    • Example: You should measure the length of the table before buying a tablecloth.
  • 2. To evaluate or estimate the quality or performance of something.
    • Example: We need to measure the effectiveness of the new marketing strategy.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'mesurer', from Latin 'mensurare'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

measure up:

To be equal to or meet a standard.

take the measure of:

To assess someone's character or ability.

measure twice, cut once:

A proverb advising careful planning.

in measure:

To a certain extent or degree.

wild measure:

A reckless or extravagant way of acting.

Related Words

dimension:

A measurable extent of a particular kind, such as length, breadth, depth, or height.

gauge:

To estimate or determine the amount or volume of something.

scale:

A graduated range of values forming a standard system for measuring or grading.

calibration:

The process of adjusting the precision of measuring instruments.

metric:

A standard of measurement.

Slang Meanings of measure

Meaning: To check or evaluate something quickly.

Example Sentence: Let me measure that and see if it fits.

Meaning: To be cautious before making a decision.

Example Sentence: You should measure before you leap into that project.