dilatometer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very RareTechnical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “dilatometer” mean?
A scientific instrument for measuring changes in volume or dimensions of a material.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A scientific instrument for measuring changes in volume or dimensions of a material.
In specialized contexts, any device used to precisely measure thermal expansion, swelling, or contraction of solids, liquids, or gases under controlled conditions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences; spelling is consistent.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally rare in both dialects, confined to highly specialized literature and laboratories.
Grammar
How to Use “dilatometer” in a Sentence
The [material] was analysed using a dilatometer.Measurements were taken with a [type] dilatometer.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dilatometer” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The dilatometric analysis revealed the phase transition.
- Dilatometric curves were plotted.
American English
- Dilatometric data confirmed the coefficient of expansion.
- The study relied on dilatometric techniques.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in materials science, physics, ceramics, or metallurgy research papers.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Core term for describing equipment in labs measuring thermal expansion coefficients.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dilatometer”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dilatometer”
- Mispronouncing as 'dil-AT-ometer' (stress is on the third syllable).
- Confusing it with a 'dynamometer' (measures force).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Calipers measure static dimensions. A dilatometer dynamically measures dimensional changes in response to variables like temperature.
Primarily in materials science, metallurgy, ceramics engineering, and geology to study thermal expansion, phase transitions, and sintering processes.
Yes. Engineers use dilatometer data to select materials for bridges or railways, ensuring they can withstand expansion and contraction with temperature changes without cracking.
It denotes a highly specialised piece of laboratory equipment, so its usage is confined to technical professionals and researchers in very specific disciplines.
A scientific instrument for measuring changes in volume or dimensions of a material.
Dilatometer is usually technical / scientific in register.
Dilatometer: in British English it is pronounced /ˌdʌɪləˈtɒmɪtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌdɪləˈtɑːmɪtər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'DILATE' + 'METER' – a meter that measures how much something dilates (expands).
Conceptual Metaphor
A specialised ruler for capturing the 'breathing' (expansion/contraction) of materials.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a dilatometer?