gradiometer

noun

gra·​di·​om·​e·​ter ˌgrā-dē-ˈä-mə-tər How to pronounce gradiometer (audio)
: an instrument for measuring the gradient of a physical quantity (such as the earth's magnetic field)

Examples of gradiometer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Matney, along with present and former UA students and Hiram students, will use a magnetic gradiometer to map subtle changes in the earth's magnetic field. Karen Farkas, cleveland.com, 11 Oct. 2017

Word History

Etymology

gradient + -o- + -meter

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gradiometer was in 1899

Dictionary Entries Near gradiometer

Cite this Entry

“Gradiometer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gradiometer. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!