precision

[ pri-sizh-uhn ]

noun

1. the state or quality of being precise.
2. accuracy; exactness:

   to arrive at an estimate with precision.

   Synonyms: rigor

3. mechanical or scientific exactness:

   a lens ground with precision.

4. punctiliousness; strictness:

   precision in one's business dealings.

5. Mathematics. the degree to which the correctness of a quantity is expressed. Compare accuracy ( def 3 ).
6. Chemistry, Physics. the extent to which a given set of measurements of the same sample agree with their mean. Compare accuracy ( def 2 ).

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by precision:

   precision swimming; precision instruments for aircraft.

precision

/ prɪˈsɪʒən /

noun

1. the quality of being precise; accuracy
2. modifier characterized by or having a high degree of exactness

   a precision instrument

   precision grinding

Derived Forms

• preˈcisionism, noun
• preˈcisionist, noun

Other Words From

• pre·cision·al adjective
• over·pre·cision noun
• ultra·pre·cision noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of precision¹

First recorded in 1630–40; from Latin praecīsiōn-, stem of praecīsiō “cutoff”; equivalent to precise + -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of precision¹

C17: from Latin praecīsiō a cutting off; see precise

Example Sentences

By borrowing the idea of directed evolution, a technique used in both chemistry and biology that mimics the process of natural selection, the researchers combined precision with rapid output to achieve their ideal lipid "recipe."

From Science Daily

The Penn Engineers' iterative design process allows researchers to improve these lipids with unprecedented speed and precision, bringing the next generation of mRNA therapies closer to reality.

From Science Daily

The court found that legislators had targeted Black voters with “almost surgical precision.”

From Slate

This approach aims to enhance understanding of cellular networks and disease mechanisms, pushing forward the frontiers of precision medicine for immune-related diseases like HS.

From Science Daily

From the beginning of his learning curve, Charles charges ahead with a mixture of professional determination, childlike glee and scientific precision — finding the atmosphere “rife with secrets, grudges, interpersonal issues.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• rigor