chronometer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical, formal, literary
Quick answer
What does “chronometer” mean?
A highly accurate instrument for measuring time, especially one used for scientific or navigational purposes.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A highly accurate instrument for measuring time, especially one used for scientific or navigational purposes.
In extended use, any exceptionally precise timing device; figuratively, something that measures or marks the passage of time with great accuracy.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is equally technical in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes precision, science, exploration, and heritage (particularly in the context of maritime history).
Frequency
Very low frequency in general discourse; primarily found in historical, horological, navigational, and scientific contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “chronometer” in a Sentence
The [captain/navigator] consulted the chronometer.The [marine/box] chronometer was essential for determining longitude.They [relied on/checked/synchronised] the chronometer.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chronometer” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The museum's collection features a marine chronometer used by the Royal Navy.
- To calculate longitude at sea, an accurate chronometer was indispensable.
American English
- He inherited his grandfather's certified pocket chronometer.
- The ship's log noted the chronometer was losing two seconds per day.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. May appear in the marketing of high-end, precision watches.
Academic
Used in historical texts, history of science, navigation, and horology.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Core term in horology (the study of timekeeping), maritime navigation, and astronomy.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chronometer”
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chronometer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chronometer”
- Using 'chronometer' to refer to any wristwatch (it's a specific certification of precision).
- Confusing 'chronometer' with 'chronograph' (which is a watch with a stopwatch function).
- Misspelling as 'cronometer'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A chronometer is a timepiece certified for high precision. A chronograph is a watch with a built-in stopwatch function, regardless of its precision certification.
No. Officially, 'chronometer' is a designation granted by an independent testing institute (like COSC in Switzerland) after the movement has passed rigorous precision tests under various conditions.
They enabled accurate determination of longitude at sea, which prevented navigational errors, shipwrecks, and loss of life, thereby expanding global trade and exploration.
No, it is a specialist term. In everyday language, people say 'watch' or 'clock'. 'Chronometer' is used mainly in horology, history, and the marketing of high-end precision watches.
A highly accurate instrument for measuring time, especially one used for scientific or navigational purposes.
Chronometer is usually technical, formal, literary in register.
Chronometer: in British English it is pronounced /krəˈnɒm.ɪ.tər/, and in American English it is pronounced /krəˈnɑː.mə.t̬ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CHRONO (time) + METER (measure) = a measurer of time.
Conceptual Metaphor
A chronometer is a HEARTBEAT OF EXPLORATION / a calibrated conscience for time.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary distinguishing feature of a chronometer?