v.
- ascertain the size, amount, or degree of (something) by comparison with a standard unit or with an object of known size.
▸be of (a specified size or degree).
▸
(measure something out)
take an exact quantity of something.
- assess the extent, quality, value, or effect of.
▸
(measure up)
reach the required or expected standard.
- archaic travel over (a certain distance or area).
n.
- a means of achieving a purpose:
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cost-cutting measures.
▸a legislative bill.
- a standard unit used to express size, amount, or degree.
▸an instrument such as a container, rod, or tape marked with standard units and used for measuring.
-
(a measure of)
a certain amount or degree of.
▸an indication of extent or quality.
- the rhythm of a piece of poetry or a piece of music.
▸a particular metrical unit or group.
▸N. Amer. a bar of music or the time of a piece of music.
- archaic a dance.
-
(measures)
a group of rock strata.
- Printing the width of a full line of type or print, typically expressed in picas.
Phrase
- beyond measure
to a very great extent. - for good measure
as an amount or item beyond that which is strictly required. - get
(or take or have)
the measure of
assess or have assessed the character or abilities of. - in —— measure
to the degree specified.
Derivative
Etymology
ME (also in the sense ‘moderation’): from OFr. mesure, from L. mensura, from mens-, metiri ‘measure’.
