Dimensions, quantity, or capacity as ascertained by comparison with a standard.
A reference standard or sample used for the quantitative comparison of properties: The standard kilogram is maintained as a measure of mass.
A unit specified by a scale, such as an inch, or by variable conditions, such as a day's march.
A system of measurement, such as the metric system.
A device used for measuring.
The act of measuring.
An evaluation or a basis of comparison: "the final measure of the worth of a society"(Joseph Wood Krutch). See Synonyms at standard.
Extent or degree: The problem was in large measure caused by his carelessness.
A definite quantity that has been measured out: a measure of wine.
A fitting amount: a measure of recognition.
A limited amount or degree: a measure of good-will.
Limit; bounds: generosity knowing no measure.
Appropriate restraint; moderation: "The union of . . . fervor with measure, passion with correctness, this surely is the ideal"(William James).
An action taken as a means to an end; an expedient. Often used in the plural: desperate measures.
A legislative bill or enactment.
Poetic meter.
Music The metric unit between two bars on the staff; a bar.
v.
meas·ured, meas·ur·ing, meas·ures
v.
tr.
To ascertain the dimensions, quantity, or capacity of: measured the height of the ceiling.
To mark, lay out, or establish dimensions for by measuring: measure off an area.
To estimate by evaluation or comparison: "I gave them an account . . . of the situation as far as I could measure it"(Winston S. Churchill).
To bring into comparison: She measured her power with that of a dangerous adversary.
To mark off or apportion, usually with reference to a given unit of measurement: measure out a pint of milk.
To allot or distribute as if by measuring; mete: The revolutionary tribunal measured out harsh justice.
To serve as a measure of: The inch measures length.
To consider or choose with care; weigh: He measures his words with caution.
Archaic To travel over: "We must measure twenty miles today"(Shakespeare).
v.
intr.
To have a measurement of: The room measures 12 by 20 feet.
To take a measurement.
To allow of measurement: White sugar measures more easily than brown.
Phrasal Verb(s): measure up
To be the equal of something; have similar quality.
To have the necessary qualifications: a candidate who just didn't measure up.
Idiom(s):
beyond measure
In excess.
Without limit.
Idiom(s):
for good measure
In addition to the required amount.
Idiom(s):
in a/some measure
To a degree: The new law was in a measure harmful.
[Middle English, from Old French mesure, from Latin mēnsūra, from mēnsus, past participle of mētīrī, to measure; see mē-2 in Indo-European roots.]
meas'ur·er n.
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