gravimeter

noun

gra·​vi·​me·​ter gra-ˈvi-mə-tər How to pronounce gravimeter (audio) ˈgra-və-ˌmē- How to pronounce gravimeter (audio)
: a sensitive weighing instrument for measuring variations in a gravitational field (as of a planet)

Examples of gravimeter 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.
Satellites have allowed scientists to overcome the limits of a sparse network of tide gauges and gravimeters, along the coasts and on midocean islands, finally supplying continuous—and nearly global—sea-level data, Hardenberg writes. Bruce Dorminey, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025 The researchers’ simulations found that such signals could be detectable in orbital data from Global Navigation Satellite Systems, as well as gravimeters that measure variations in Earth’s gravitational field. Clara Moskowitz, Scientific American, 24 Sep. 2024 Also at Rimpac, Vector Atomic demonstrated a compact quantum gravimeter paired with a standard inertial navigation system that promises to allow naval ships to navigate without GPS. Jeremy Bogaisky, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023 Enviroscan’s gravimeter also indicated a large metallic mass with the density of gold, according to Warren Getler, who worked closely with the Paradas and the FBI. Time, 9 Mar. 2021 Enviroscan’s gravimeter also indicated a large metallic mass with the density of gold, according to Warren Getler, who worked closely with the Paradas and the FBI. Time, 9 Mar. 2021 Enviroscan’s gravimeter also indicated a large metallic mass with the density of gold, according to Warren Getler, who worked closely with the Paradas and the FBI. Time, 9 Mar. 2021 Enviroscan’s gravimeter also indicated a large metallic mass with the density of gold, according to Warren Getler, who worked closely with the Paradas and the FBI. Time, 9 Mar. 2021 John Louie, a geophysics professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, unconnected to the dig, said the gravimeter is a powerful tool that can yield important clues about what’s underground. Time, 9 Mar. 2021

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "device for determining the specific gravity of a substance," borrowed from French gravimètre, from gravi- gravi- + -mètre -meter

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gravimeter was in 1932

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gravimeter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gravimeter. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

gravimeter

noun
gra·​vi·​me·​ter gra-ˈvim-ət-ər How to pronounce gravimeter (audio) ˈgrav-ə-ˌmēt- How to pronounce gravimeter (audio)
: an instrument for measuring differences in the force of gravity at different places

Medical Definition

gravimeter

noun
gra·​vi·​me·​ter gra-ˈvim-ət-ər How to pronounce gravimeter (audio) ˈgrav-ə-ˌmēt-ər How to pronounce gravimeter (audio)
: a device similar to a hydrometer for determining specific gravity

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