vernier

¹

[ vur-nee-er ]

noun

1. Also vernier scale. a small, movable, graduated scale running parallel to the fixed graduated scale of a sextant, theodolite, barometer, etc., and used for measuring a fractional part of one of the divisions of the fixed scale.
2. Machinery. an auxiliary device for giving a piece of apparatus a higher adjustment accuracy.

adjective

1. equipped with a vernier:

   a vernier barometer.

Vernier

²

[ vur-nee-er; French ver-nyey ]

noun

1. Pierre [pye, r], 1580–1637, French mathematician and inventor.

vernier

/ ˈvɜːnɪə /

noun

1. a small movable scale running parallel to the main graduated scale in certain measuring instruments, such as theodolites, used to obtain a fractional reading of one of the divisions on the main scale
2. an auxiliary device for making a fine adjustment to an instrument, usually by means of a fine screw thread
3. modifier relating to or fitted with a vernier

   a vernier barometer

   a vernier scale

Vernier

/ vĕr-nyā′ /

1. French mathematician and maker of scientific instruments, known especially for his invention of an auxiliary scale (named after him) used for obtaining a highly precise reading of a subdivision of an ordinary scale.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vernier¹

First recorded in 1760–70; named after P. Vernier

Word History and Origins

Origin of vernier¹

C18: named after Paul Vernier (1580–1637), French mathematician, who described the scale

Example Sentences

That belief showed when Vernier cut a brilliant line to go over and turn up the volume on what was already a loud French crowd.

From BBC

England's defence is carved open as Gabrielle Vernier glides through to score France's opening try.

From BBC

Vernier, 26, scored five tries in this year's Six Nations and was named player of the championship before helping France to an opening victory over the Black Ferns at WXV1.

From BBC

Tremouliere will contribute to a smart kicking game and is one half of a dangerous partnership with inside centre Gabrielle Vernier.

From BBC

Scotland were wilting in the heat of north-west France, and Bourdon soon put Vernier through a gap with the centre powering over from close range to add her name to the scorers.

From BBC