calibrate

[ kal-uh-breyt ]

verb (used with object)

, cal·i·brat·ed, cal·i·brat·ing.

1. to determine, check, or rectify the graduation of (any instrument giving quantitative measurements).
2. to divide or mark with gradations, graduations, or other indexes of degree, quantity, etc., as on a thermometer, measuring cup, or the like.
3. to determine the correct range for (an artillery gun, mortar, etc.) by observing where the fired projectile hits.
4. to plan or devise (something) carefully so as to have a precise use, application, appeal, etc.:

   a sales strategy calibrated to rich investors.

calibrate

/ ˈkælɪˌbreɪt /

verb

1. to measure the calibre of (a gun, mortar, etc)
2. to mark (the scale of a measuring instrument) so that readings can be made in appropriate units
3. to determine the accuracy of (a measuring instrument, etc)
4. to determine or check the range and accuracy of (a piece of artillery)

calibrate

/ kăl′ə-brāt′ /

1. To check, adjust, or standardize a measuring instrument, usually by comparing it with an accepted model.
2. To measure the diameter of the inside of a tube.

Derived Forms

• ˌcaliˈbration, noun
• ˈcaliˌbrator, noun

Other Words From

• cal·i·bra·tion [kal-, uh, -, brey, -sh, uh, n], noun
• cal·i·bra·tor cal·i·brat·er noun
• re·cal·i·brate verb (used with or without object) recalibrated recalibrating
• un·cal·i·brat·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of calibrate¹

First recorded in 1860–65; calib(e)r + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Without a carefully calibrated immune system, your body may not effectively clear infections or may strongly react to its own cells.

From Salon

The next release, covering the second quarter of 2024, won’t be published until December; it’s calibrated with the bureau’s other estimates only once a year.

From Los Angeles Times

It was a significant public turnaround, one calibrated to bring Georgia Republicans together ahead of a tight Nov. 5. election.

From Los Angeles Times

Hezbollah seemed to be betting that with calibrated attacks, it could prevent an all-out war — and that Israel would be deterred from invading Lebanon again by the threat of Hezbollah’s large arsenal of rockets.

From Los Angeles Times

But whatever response it chooses, it will likely calibrate it to be just short of triggering a regional war that would draw in the US and which it could not win.

From BBC

Related Words

• adjust
• assess
• average
• check
• compute
• determine
• estimate
• evaluate
• fit
• gauge
• limit
• mark
• peg
• quantify
• rank
• regulate
• survey
• weigh