altimeter

[ al-tim-i-ter, al-tuh-mee-ter ]

noun

1. a sensitive aneroid barometer that is graduated and calibrated, used chiefly in aircraft for finding distance above sea level, terrain, or some other reference point by a comparison of air pressures.
2. any device used for the same purpose that operates by some other means, as by radio waves.

altimeter

/ ælˈtɪmɪtə; ˈæltɪˌmiːtə /

noun

1. an instrument that indicates height above sea level, esp one based on an aneroid barometer and fitted to an aircraft

altimeter

/ ăl-tĭm′ĭ-tər /

1. An instrument that measures and indicates the height above sea level at which an object, such as an airplane, is located.

Word History and Origins

Origin of altimeter¹

First recorded in 1820–30; alti- + -meter

Example Sentences

This is done using a specific type of satellite called an altimeter, which sends down radar pulses to very precisely measure the height of the ice surface.

From BBC

This veteran spacecraft carries a radar altimeter able to sense how much of a berg's bulk is above the waterline.

From BBC

She declined a jumpsuit but accepted an altimeter.

From Seattle Times

The airline said all its planes in active use now have radio altimeters that are protected against interference.

From Washington Times

Delta said all planes in service have now been updated while a few aircraft are out of service for planned maintenance and will be equipped with 5G-compliant radio altimeters as they return to service.

From Reuters