scales

B1 · Intermediate Plural noun

n. the small, thin, hard plates that cover the bodies of fish and snakes.

n. the small, overlapping rigid plates forming the protective outer covering of fish, reptiles, and certain other animals.

“The fish had shiny silver scales that sparkled in the sunlight.”

“Biologists examined the arrangement of the snake's scales to determine its specific subspecies and geographic origin.”

C1 · Advanced Plural noun Science Formal

n. another name for the constellation or zodiac sign Libra.

n. the constellation and zodiacal sign Libra, represented by the symbol of a balance.

“In ancient times, the Scales were associated with the autumn equinox.”

“The astronomer pointed out the Scales of Libra, noting that it is the only zodiacal constellation representing an inanimate object.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to climb up something steep, or to increase in size or level.

v. the third-person singular present form of 'scale', meaning to climb a steep surface or to adjust in size or proportion.

“The mountain climber scales the cliff face with impressive speed.”

“As the startup grows, the software automatically scales to handle the increased traffic from new users.”