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| n. 1. often calipers An instrument having two legs that can pivot or slide relative to each other, used to measure thickness and distance. 2. A large instrument having a fixed and a movable arm on a graduated stock, used for measuring the diameters of logs and similar objects. 3. A vernier caliper. 4. a. The assembly housing the brake pads in a disc brake. b. The assembly in certain bicycle brakes that forces the brake pads against the wheel rim. [Alteration of CALIBER.] cali·per v.  (click for a larger image) caliperleft to right: spring and inside calipers |
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