anthropometer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “anthropometer” mean?
An instrument for measuring the human body and its parts.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An instrument for measuring the human body and its parts.
A specialized tool used in anthropometry for taking precise measurements of stature, limb lengths, body circumferences, and other physical dimensions in humans.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences. The term is equally technical in both varieties.
Connotations
Purely scientific/medical; no divergent cultural connotations.
Frequency
Extremely low-frequency in general discourse. Used only within specific fields like physical anthropology, ergonomics, and forensic science.
Grammar
How to Use “anthropometer” in a Sentence
The anthropometer measured [body part][Researcher] used/took measurements with an anthropometerVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in research papers and textbooks in physical anthropology, human biology, and sports science.
Everyday
Not used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Core term in anthropometry, ergonomics, forensic anthropology, and industrial design for creating size charts or workstations.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “anthropometer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “anthropometer”
- Confusing 'anthropometer' (the tool) with 'anthropometry' (the science) or 'anthropometrist' (the person).
- Using it in non-technical contexts where 'tape measure' or 'ruler' would be appropriate.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both measure, an anthropometer is a rigid, calibrated instrument designed for highly precise and reproducible measurements of specific body landmarks, unlike a flexible tape measure.
It is used by physical anthropologists, ergonomists, forensic scientists, sports scientists, and designers working with human body dimensions.
No. The term is specific to measuring the human body. For objects, use 'ruler', 'caliper', or 'measuring tape'.
No. It is a highly specialized technical term unknown to most general English speakers.
An instrument for measuring the human body and its parts.
Anthropometer is usually technical/scientific in register.
Anthropometer: in British English it is pronounced /ˌanθrəˈpɒmɪtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌænθrəˈpɑːmɪtɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: ANTHROPO (human) + METER (measure) = a meter/measure for humans.
Conceptual Metaphor
TOOL AS EXTENSION OF THE SCIENTIST'S HAND (for precise data collection).
Practice
Quiz
An anthropometer is primarily used in which field?