Word
calibrate
Phoneticscal·i·brate, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkæɫəˌbɹeɪt/
UK/kˈælɪbɹˌeɪt/
Engineering
Definition
v. to check and adjust a machine or tool so that it gives the correct measurements. You do this to make sure the device is working exactly as it should.
v. to determine the accuracy of a measuring instrument by comparing it to a known standard. Often involves adjusting the device to ensure it provides consistent and reliable data.
Examples
“You need to calibrate the scale before you start weighing the ingredients.”
“The technician spent the morning calibrating the sensors to ensure the data collected during the experiment was accurate.”
“Before the satellite entered its final orbit, engineers had to calibrate the onboard instruments to account for the slight atmospheric drag that would affect its trajectory over time.”
Examples
simple
“You need to calibrate the scale before you start weighing the ingredients.”
contextual
“The technician spent the morning calibrating the sensors to ensure the data collected during the experiment was accurate.”
complex
“Before the satellite entered its final orbit, engineers had to calibrate the onboard instruments to account for the slight atmospheric drag that would affect its trajectory over time.”
Real-World Examples
“It also connects beautifully to my current broader research work with particle physics."
The latest CosmicWatch design is well suited for calibrating large-scale detectors.” “Storytellers also needed to read the room, calibrating their performances based on the audience’s response.” Etymology
From caliber or calibre + -ate.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/calibrate