clinical thermometer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

A clinical thermometer is specifically designed and calibrated for measuring human body temperature with high precision over a narrow range (approx. 35–42°C). Regular thermometers may measure a much wider range (e.g., -10 to 110°C) with less precision around body temperature and are for ambient, culinary, or industrial use.

Due to the toxicity of mercury, their use is banned or heavily restricted in many countries. Digital, infrared (temporal or tympanic), and gallium-in-glass thermometers are now the standard in both home and clinical settings.

This depends on the type. Traditional glass thermometers were used orally, rectally, or axillarily (underarm). Digital ones are often used orally or rectally. Infrared models measure from the ear canal or forehead. Rectal readings are generally considered the most accurate core body temperature, especially for infants.

In everyday conversation, people often just say 'thermometer' when the context is clear (e.g., 'I need a thermometer for the baby'). 'Clinical thermometer' is more formal and precise, commonly found in written instructions, medical contexts, or product descriptions to avoid ambiguity.

A high-precision thermometer designed for accurately measuring human body temperature, typically with a narrow temperature range around 35–42°C (95–107°F).

Clinical thermometer is usually medical/technical, with spillover into general everyday use. in register.

Clinical thermometer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈklɪn.ɪ.kəl θəˈmɒm.ɪ.tə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈklɪn.ɪ.kəl θərˈmɑː.mə.t̬ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.