thermometer

noun

ther·​mom·​e·​ter thər-ˈmä-mə-tər How to pronounce thermometer (audio)
thə-ˈmä-mə-tər
plural thermometers
: an instrument for determining temperature
specifically : one consisting of a sensor housed in a metal probe that registers a change in electrical resistance as a change in temperature
thermometric adjective
thermometrically adverb

Examples of thermometer 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.
Add chicken to skillet, and cook, undisturbed, until light golden brown on both sides and an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part registers 165°F, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 9 May 2025 Necessities for fishkeeping normally include a filtration system, heater and thermometer. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025 Bake, uncovered, for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the mixture reaches 160 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, the eggs are set, and the top is crisped and nicely browned. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2025 There were no thermometers in any of the facility’s refrigerators, which was a repeat violation. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for thermometer

Word History

Etymology

French thermomètre, from Greek thermē heat + French -o- + -mètre -meter — more at therm

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thermometer was in 1633

Cite this Entry

“Thermometer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thermometer. Accessed 19 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

thermometer

noun
ther·​mom·​e·​ter thə(r)-ˈmäm-ət-ər How to pronounce thermometer (audio)
: an instrument for measuring temperature
thermometric adjective

Medical Definition

thermometer

noun
ther·​mom·​e·​ter thə(r)-ˈmäm-ət-ər How to pronounce thermometer (audio)
: an instrument for determining temperature that usually consists either of a device providing a digital readout or of a glass bulb attached to a fine tube of glass with a numbered scale and containing a liquid (as mercury or colored alcohol) that is sealed in and rises and falls with changes of temperature

More from Merriam-Webster on thermometer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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