caliber

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Technology American English · Technical

n. the width of the inside of a gun or the size of a bullet.

n. the internal diameter of a firearm's bore or the diameter of a projectile. It is typically expressed in hundredths or thousandths of an inch or in millimetres.

“He bought a small caliber handgun for target practice at the range.”

“The artillery piece was classified by its caliber, determining the specific type of shell required for effective operation during the exercise.”

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun American English · Formal · Archaic

n. a person's importance or position in society.

n. the degree of importance or station in society. This sense is less common in modern speech and often carries a more formal or literary tone.

“In the old days, a man of his caliber was expected to lead the town.”

“The historical novel depicts a society where individuals were judged strictly by their social caliber and family lineage.”