altimeter

noun al·tim·e·ter \al-ˈti-mə-tər, ˈal-tə-ˌmē-tər\

: an instrument used for measuring the altitude of something (such as an airplane or a mountain)

Full Definition of ALTIMETER

: an instrument for measuring altitude; especially : an aneroid barometer designed to register changes in atmospheric pressure accompanying changes in altitude

— al·tim·e·try \al-ˈti-mə-trē\ noun

See altimeter defined for English-language learners

See altimeter defined for kids

Origin of ALTIMETER

Latin altus + English -meter

First Known Use: 1768

Rhymes with ALTIMETER

centiliter, centimeter, deciliter, decimeter, dekaliter, dekameter, hectoliter, honeyeater, lotus-eater, microliter, milliliter, millimeter, nanometer, overeater, parking meter, postage meter, superheater, taximeter, trick-or-treater, water heater, water meter

Learn More About ALTIMETER

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about "altimeter"

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: AltingiaceaePrevious Word in the Dictionary: altilikAll Words Near: altimeter

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up altimeter? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

View Seen & Heard Highlights from Around the Site

Test Your Vocabulary!

10 Charming Words for Nasty People

Put-downs with flair

Learn More

When "Literally" isn't, well, literal

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Watch Now

Know what this is?

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Go Play

Fear of cats?

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears

Learn More