planimeter

[ pluh-nim-i-ter ]

noun

1. an instrument for measuring mechanically the area of plane figures.

planimeter

/ plæˈnɪmɪtə /

noun

1. a mechanical integrating instrument for measuring the area of an irregular plane figure, such as the area under a curve, by moving a point attached to an arm around the perimeter of the figure

Word History and Origins

Origin of planimeter¹

First recorded in 1855–60; plani- + -meter

Example Sentences

There are two methods of doing this, one by means of a planimeter or averaging instrument, and the other by means of lines called ordinates.

From Project Gutenberg

At least two such readings were taken for each home range; then these planimeter values were converted into square feet.

From Project Gutenberg

We saw also a planimeter, which not only calculated mechanically the area of a figure, but gave also its center of gravity, moment of inertia, etc.

From Project Gutenberg

Areas were measured with a planimeter; distances traveled by individuals were measured with a cartometer.

From Project Gutenberg

The apparatus used in engine testing, in addition to that used in boiler testing, consists of a steam engine indicator and reducing device for taking diagrams, and a planimeter for measuring them afterwards.

From Project Gutenberg