Meaning & use
barometer
An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure, used especially to forecast weather.
See it in a sentence
The falling barometer suggested that a storm was approaching the coast.
Consumer spending is often treated as a barometer of overall economic health.
A note on using this word
Barometer is frequently used figuratively for something that indicates or predicts changes in a wider situation.
Words with a similar meaning
indicatorgauge
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
Something that indicates or reflects changes in a wider situation, such as public opinion.
The local election results are often seen as a barometer of national political mood.
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