CENTIGRADE Meaning and
Definition
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Centigrade is an adjective used to describe a temperature scale that has 100 equal divisions or degrees between the freezing and boiling points of water. It is based on the Celsius temperature scale, which is widely used for measuring temperature in most countries around the world. In the centigrade scale, the freezing point of water is defined as 0 degrees, while the boiling point of water is defined as 100 degrees.
The term "centigrade" originates from the Latin words "centi," meaning one hundred, and "gradus," meaning step or degree. Therefore, centigrade literally translates to "one hundred steps" or "one hundred degrees." This name is derived from the fact that the scale is divided into increments of 100 units between the reference points of water's freezing and boiling.
The centigrade scale, also known as the Celsius scale, is commonly used in scientific research, weather forecasts, and everyday temperature measurements. It provides a convenient and consistent method for expressing temperature that is widely understood and accepted internationally. Many thermometer devices, both analog and digital, are calibrated in centigrade units, further reinforcing its widespread usage.
Furthermore, the centigrade scale is considered to be part of the metric system, as it is based on multiples of ten. This aligns with the metric system's principles of simplicity and decimalization, allowing for easier conversions and calculations.
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1. Consisting of one hundred degrees. 2. One hundredth part of a circle, equal to 3.6° of the astronomical circle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A thermometer divided, between the freezing and boiling points of water, into 100 parts or degrees.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of CENTIGRADE
The word "centigrade" originates from the Latin term "centum" meaning "hundred" and the Latin word "gradus" meaning "step" or "degree". It was first used in the late 18th century, with Anders Celsius introducing the centigrade temperature scale in 1742. The name "centigrade" was used because the scale was divided into 100 degrees between the freezing and boiling points of water. However, in 1948, the General Conference on Weights and Measures officially renamed the scale as the Celsius scale to honor Anders Celsius, hence why "centigrade" is now less commonly used.
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