gravimeter

[ gruh-vim-i-ter ]

noun

1. an instrument for measuring the specific gravity of a solid or liquid.
2. Also called gravity meter. an instrument for measuring variations in the gravitational field of the earth by detecting differences in weight of an object of constant mass at different points on the earth's surface.

gravimeter

/ ɡrəˈvɪmɪtə /

noun

1. an instrument for measuring the earth's gravitational field at points on its surface
2. an instrument for measuring relative density

gravimeter

/ gră-vĭm′ĭ-tər /

1. An instrument used to measure variations in a gravitational field, typically by measuring the rate of acceleration of a falling body. Gravimeters are used to survey geological features with different densities beneath the Earth's surface, such as ore-laden rock or oil fields, that affect the local strength of gravity above them.
2. An instrument, such as a hydrometer, used to measure the specific gravity of a liquid or solid.

Derived Forms

• graˈvimetry, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of gravimeter¹

1790–1800; < French gravimètre, equivalent to gravi- (combining form of Latin gravis heavy) + -mètre -meter

Word History and Origins

Origin of gravimeter¹

C18: from French gravimètre, from Latin gravis heavy

Example Sentences

Some scientists are employing them as microscopes and gravimeters.

From Science Magazine

The way in which the gravimeter was used in this case — more than 50 measurements on a flat surface — “is like a fingerprint,” Getler said.

From Washington Post

John Louie, a geophysics professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, unconnected to the dig, said the gravimeter is a powerful tool that can yield important clues about what’s underground.

From Seattle Times

John Louie, a geophysics professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, unconnected to the dig, said the gravimeter is a powerful tool that can yield important clues about what’s underground.

From Washington Times

The gravimeter measures the force of gravity at a given location.

From Seattle Times