dynamometer

noun

dy·​na·​mom·​e·​ter ˌdī-nə-ˈmä-mə-tər 

1

: an instrument for measuring mechanical force

2

: an apparatus for measuring mechanical power (as of an engine)

dynamometric

ˌdī-nə-mō-ˈme-trik 

adjective

dynamometry

ˌdī-nə-ˈmä-mə-trē 

noun

Examples of dynamometer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

On a device called a dynamometer, the average man younger than 45 can generate about 100 pounds of force. —Matt Fuchs, Time, 30 Apr. 2025

Usually, the test involves squeezing a dynamometer, which is a device that measures power. —Angela Haupt, TIME, 14 Aug. 2024

How to assess and track your grip strength at home In clinical settings, a hand dynamometer measures grip strength by gauging the force applied when squeezing its handle. —Dana Santas, CNN, 1 Apr. 2024

The 23-kilowatt experimental GE motor was tested on a dynamometer using a torque meter—the gray, cylindrical item with the fins at left. —IEEE Spectrum, 15 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French dynamomètre, from dynamique dynamic entry 1 + -o- -o- + -mètre -meter

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for dynamometer

• anemometer
• audiometer
• densitometer
• diffractometer
• dilatometer
• electrometer
• extensometer
• goniometer
• magnetometer
• penetrometer
• piezometer
• radiometer

Medical Definition

dynamometer

noun

dy·​na·​mom·​e·​ter ˌdī-nə-ˈmäm-ət-ər 

: an instrument for measuring the force of muscular contraction especially of the hand

dynamometric

-nə-mō-ˈme-trik 

adjective