The word "inclinometer" refers to a device used to measure the angle of slope or tilt of an object or surface. The spelling of this term is guided by the principles of English phonetics. It is pronounced as /ɪnˈklaɪnəmɪtə/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The "i" is followed by "n" and "c" to indicate the "incline" sound. The "-ometer" suffix, which is common in scientific terminology, denotes measurement, while the "-t" is added to indicate the adjectival form of the word.
An inclinometer is a specialized mechanical or electronic instrument used for measuring angles of inclination or tilt relative to the horizontal plane. This device is typically employed in various fields such as construction, engineering, geology, and navigation.
Inclinometers come in different forms and designs, but they generally consist of a housing containing a sensor or a pendulum that moves in response to changes in inclination. The measurement of inclination is achieved by observing the position of the sensor or pendulum with respect to a calibrated scale or digital display.
These instruments are highly accurate and provide precise information about slopes, gradients, or angles in both horizontal and vertical planes. They can be used to determine the inclination of structures, slopes, or the rotation of moving objects such as ships or aircraft.
Inclinometers find extensive applications in various industries. For example, in construction and engineering, they are used to monitor the stability of structures such as buildings, bridges, dams, and tunnels. In geology, inclinometers can help assess the stability of cliffs, rock formations, and landslides. In navigation, they are used in ships, aircraft, and even vehicles to maintain balance, estimate pitch and roll, and prevent accidents.
Overall, an inclinometer is a versatile instrument that plays a crucial role in measuring angles of inclination, providing valuable data for a wide range of applications across different fields.
An instrument for determining the direction of the ocular axes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
An instr. for measuring the vertical elements of the magnetic force.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word inclinometer comes from the combination of two Latin roots: inclinare, meaning to lean or bend, and metrum, meaning measure. Hence, inclinometer literally means a device for measuring inclination or slope.