clinometer

[ klahy-nom-i-ter, kli- ]

noun

1. an instrument for determining angles of inclination or slope.

clinometer

/ ˌklaɪnəˈmɛtrɪk; klaɪˈnɒmɪtə /

noun

1. an instrument used in surveying for measuring an angle of inclination

Derived Forms

• clinometric, adjective
• cliˈnometry, noun

Other Words From

• cli·nome·try noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clinometer¹

First recorded in 1805–15; clino- + -meter

Example Sentences

Tree measurements are collected using such forestry tools as a low-tech Biltmore stick, a clinometer or, most accurate of all, a laser hypsometer.

From Washington Times

He used a clinometer, a device that allowed him to determine the height by triangulating, using the tree, his own position and the angle of the distance between them.

From New York Times

At each sample site we measure boulder dimensions, collect high-resolution GPS coordinates, employ a compass and clinometer to map the heights of surrounding mountains that impede cosmic radiation, draw detailed diagrams of the sample and its surroundings, and take photographs from all angles.

From New York Times

Between the col and the summit we met some very steep snow slopes on the South side: we carried no clinometer and I shall not venture to estimate their angles of inclination.

From Project Gutenberg

I have estimated the angle of the ice-wall at sixty-five degrees, and tremendous as that inclination is, I believe I have rather understated it, though, as my clinometer was left behind, I could only compare it mentally with the well-known ice-wall on the Strahleck, which seemed about fifteen degrees less.

From Project Gutenberg