nilometer

noun

ni·​lom·​e·​ter

nīˈlämətə(r)

often capitalized

: a gauge for measuring the height of water in the Nile especially during its flood

specifically : a graduated scale cut on a natural rock or in the stone wall of a pit communicating with the river

nilometric

¦nīlə¦me‧trik

adjective often capitalized

Word History

Etymology

modification (influenced by English -meter) of New Latin nilometrion, from Greek neilometrion, from Neilos Nile, river in Africa + -metrion (from metron measure)

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!