Meaning & use
chronometer
Last updated
UK/krəˈnɒmɪtə/
US/krəˈnɑːmɪtər/
Meaning
nouncountabletechnical
A very accurate clock, especially one used for navigation or science.
Grammar: Countable: a chronometer, the chronometer, chronometers.
Patterns
- a chronometer
- by chronometer
The ship's chronometer kept perfect time during the voyage.
Scientists used a chronometer to measure the eclipse precisely.
Word forms
| plural | chronometers |
|---|
Common combinations
- marine chronometer
- The marine chronometer was essential for finding longitude at sea.
- accurate chronometer
- An accurate chronometer is vital for astronomical observations.
- chronometer reading
- The captain checked the chronometer reading at noon.
Synonyms and how they differ
- clock
- Clock is the general word for any timekeeping device; chronometer implies exceptional precision.
- watch
- Watch is a small clock worn on the body; a chronometer is a precise instrument, often larger and not worn.
- timepiece
- Timepiece is a formal word for any clock or watch; chronometer is more specific about accuracy.
Word family
- chronometric adjective
- Relating to precise time measurement.
- chronometry noun
- The science of measuring time accurately.
Commonly confused: chronometer or chronology?
chronometer vs chronology
Chronology is the order of events in time, not a device for measuring time.
Practice
The explorers relied on a ______ to determine their longitude at sea.
Choose one answer.
A chronometer is a precise timekeeping instrument used for navigation. Chronology, chronography, and chronologize are not instruments.
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