calibration
precise adjustment to a standard
In more detail
1. (noun) the process of checking and adjusting a measuring instrument or device so that it gives accurate results
2. (noun) the adjustment itself that is made to ensure accuracy
Examples
- 1. The calibration of the scale took only a few minutes before we could start weighing the samples.
- 2. After calibration, the thermometer gave the correct temperature reading.
How to use calibration
Calibration is used in technical and scientific contexts to refer to the systematic process of verifying and adjusting instruments like scales, thermometers, or sensors to ensure they measure accurately. It emphasizes both the procedure itself and the resulting adjustment, and is more precise and technical than the general term 'adjustment'.
Common phrases
- calibration process
- calibration error
- calibration standard
- require calibration
- factory calibration
- perform a calibration
Synonyms
adjustment · tuning · alignment · fine-tuning · standardization
Word family
calibrate (verb) · calibrated (adjective) · calibrator (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse calibration with mere maintenance or cleaning; calibration specifically involves precise testing and adjustment against a known standard, not just general upkeep.
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