measures (redirected from Weights and measures)

meas·ure  (mzhr) n. 1. Dimensions, quantity, or capacity as ascertained by comparison with a standard. 2. A reference standard or sample used for the quantitative comparison of properties: The standard kilogram is maintained as a measure of mass. 3. A unit specified by a scale, such as an inch, or by variable conditions, such as a day's march. 4. A system of measurement, such as the metric system. 5. A device used for measuring. 6. The act of measuring. 7. An evaluation or a basis of comparison: "the final measure of the worth of a society" (Joseph Wood Krutch). See Synonyms at standard. 8. Extent or degree: The problem was in large measure caused by his carelessness. 9. A definite quantity that has been measured out: a measure of wine. 10. A fitting amount: a measure of recognition. 11. A limited amount or degree: a measure of good-will. 12. Limit; bounds: generosity knowing no measure. 13. Appropriate restraint; moderation: "The union of . . . fervor with measure, passion with correctness, this surely is the ideal" (William James). 14. An action taken as a means to an end; an expedient. Often used in the plural: desperate measures. 15. A legislative bill or enactment. 16. Poetic meter. 17. Music The metric unit between two bars on the staff; a bar. v. meas·ured, meas·ur·ing, meas·ures v.tr. 1. To ascertain the dimensions, quantity, or capacity of: measured the height of the ceiling. 2. To mark, lay out, or establish dimensions for by measuring: measure off an area. 3. To estimate by evaluation or comparison: "I gave them an account . . . of the situation as far as I could measure it" (Winston S. Churchill). 4. To bring into comparison: She measured her power with that of a dangerous adversary. 5. a. To mark off or apportion, usually with reference to a given unit of measurement: measure out a pint of milk. b. To allot or distribute as if by measuring; mete: The revolutionary tribunal measured out harsh justice. 6. To serve as a measure of: The inch measures length. 7. To consider or choose with care; weigh: He measures his words with caution. 8. Archaic To travel over: "We must measure twenty miles today" (Shakespeare). v.intr. 1. To have a measurement of: The room measures 12 by 20 feet. 2. To take a measurement. 3. To allow of measurement: White sugar measures more easily than brown. Phrasal Verb: measure up 1. To be the equal of something; have similar quality. 2. To have the necessary qualifications: a candidate who just didn't measure up. Idioms: beyond measure 1. In excess. 2. Without limit. for good measure In addition to the required amount. in a/some measure To a degree: The new law was in a measure harmful. [Middle English, from Old French mesure, from Latin mnsra, from mnsus, past participle of mtr, to measure; see m-2 in Indo-European roots.] measur·er n.

measure from "Roses of the South," a waltz by Johann Strauss the Younger

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measures [ˈmɛʒəz]

pl n

(Earth Sciences / Geological Science) rock strata that are characterized by a particular type of sediment or deposit coal measures