anemometer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “anemometer” mean?
An instrument for measuring the speed of the wind.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An instrument for measuring the speed of the wind.
A device used in meteorology and environmental science to measure wind velocity; in broader contexts, can symbolize the measurement of invisible or intangible forces.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The device is universally referred to by this term.
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally rare in general discourse in both varieties, but standard within relevant professional fields.
Grammar
How to Use “anemometer” in a Sentence
The anemometer [verb: recorded/measured/showed] [wind speed].They [verb: used/installed/consulted] the anemometer.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “anemometer” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The anemometer on the weather station spun furiously in the gale.
- Readings from the ultrasonic anemometer are more accurate in turbulent conditions.
American English
- The meteorologist checked the anemometer for the wind speed data.
- We need to replace the damaged cups on the old anemometer.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in contexts like renewable energy project planning or agricultural technology.
Academic
Common in meteorology, environmental science, physics, and engineering papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually non-existent; a layperson might say 'wind gauge' or describe its function.
Technical
The standard and precise term in meteorological reports, engineering specifications, and scientific research.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “anemometer”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “anemometer”
- Misspelling: 'anemometre' (UK spelling still uses '-er'), 'annemometer'.
- Mispronunciation: stressing the first syllable (/ˈænɪmɒmɪtə/) instead of the third (/ˌænɪˈmɒmɪtə/).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialised technical term. In everyday situations, people are more likely to refer to a 'wind gauge' or simply describe the function (e.g., 'the thing that measures wind speed').
A cup anemometer uses rotating cups pushed by the wind to measure speed. A sonic (or ultrasonic) anemometer uses ultrasonic sound waves to detect wind speed and direction, has no moving parts, and is often more accurate and responsive.
No, 'anemometer' is exclusively a noun. The related action would be 'to measure wind speed' or 'to take an anemometer reading'.
It comes from the Greek 'anemos' (meaning 'wind') and the French-derived suffix '-meter' (meaning 'measure'). It was coined in the 18th century.
An instrument for measuring the speed of the wind.
Anemometer is usually technical/scientific in register.
Anemometer: in British English it is pronounced /ˌænɪˈmɒmɪtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌænɪˈmɑːmɪtər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of ANNE who measures (meter) the wind. 'Anemo-' comes from the Greek 'anemos' for wind, and '-meter' means measure.
Conceptual Metaphor
MEASUREMENT IS QUANTIFICATION; THE WIND IS A FORCE TO BE GAUGED.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of an anemometer?