measure
measure (mĕzhʹər) noun
Abbr. meas.
1. Dimensions, quantity, or capacity as ascertained by comparison with a standard.
2. A reference standard or sample used for the quantitative comparison of properties: The standard kilogram is maintained as a measure of mass.
3. A unit specified by a scale, such as an inch, or by variable conditions, such as a day's march.
4. A system of measurement, such as the metric system.
5. A device used for measuring.
6. The act of measuring.
7. An evaluation or a basis of comparison: "the final measure of the worth of a society" (Joseph Wood Krutch). See synonyms at standard.
8. Extent or degree: The problem was in large measure caused by his carelessness.
9. A definite quantity that has been measured out: a measure of wine.
10. A fitting amount: a measure of recognition.
11. A limited amount or degree: a measure of good-will.
12. Limit; bounds: generosity knowing no measure.
13. Appropriate restraint; moderation: "The union of . . . fervor with measure, passion with correctness, this surely is the ideal" (William James).
14. Often measures An action taken as a means to an end; an expedient: desperate measures.
15. A legislative bill or enactment.
16. Poetic meter.
17. Music. The metric unit between two bars on the staff; a bar.
verb
measured, measuring, measures
verb, transitive
1. To ascertain the dimensions, quantity, or capacity of: measured the height of the ceiling.
2. To mark, lay out, or establish dimensions for by measuring: measure off an area.
3. To estimate by evaluation or comparison: "I gave them an account . . . of the situation as far as I could measure it" (Winston S. Churchill).
4. To bring into comparison: She measured her power with that of a dangerous adversary.
5. a. To mark off or apportion, usually with reference to a given unit of measurement: measure out a pint of milk. b. To allot or distribute as if by measuring; mete: The revolutionary tribunal measured out harsh justice.
6. To serve as a measure of: The inch measures length.
7. To consider or choose with care; weigh: He measures his words with caution.
8. Archaic. To travel over: "We must measure twenty miles today" (Shakespeare).
verb, intransitive
1. To have a measurement of: The room measures 12 by 20 feet.
2. To take a measurement.
3. To allow of measurement: White sugar measures more easily than brown.
phrasal verb.
measure up
1. To be the equal of.
2. To have the necessary qualifications: a candidate who just didn't measure up.
idiom.
beyond measure
1. In excess.
2. Without limit.
for good measure
In addition to the required amount.
in a measure or in 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.]
measʹurer noun