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n. 1. a. A reference standard or sample used for the quantitative comparison of properties: The standard kilogram is maintained as a measure of mass. b. A unit specified by a scale, such as an inch, or by variable conditions, such as a day's march. c. A system of measurement, such as the metric system. d. The dimensions, quantity, or capacity of something as ascertained by comparison with a standard: curtains made to measure; took his measure for the suit jacket. e. A device used for measuring. f. The act of measuring: By measure the picture was four feet tall. 2. An evaluation or a basis of comparison: "the final measure of the worth of a society" (Joseph Wood Krutch). 3. Extent or degree: The problem was in large measure caused by his carelessness. 4. a. A definite quantity that has been measured out: a measure of wine. b. A fitting amount: a measure of recognition. c. A limited amount or degree: a measure of goodwill. 5. a. Limit; bounds: generosity knowing no measure. b. Appropriate restraint; moderation: "The union of ... fervor with measure, passion with correctness, this surely is the ideal" (William James). 6. a. An action taken as a means to an end; an expedient: measures taken to improve energy efficiency. b. A law or ballot initiative adopted by a legislature as a remedy for a problem. 7. a. Poetic meter. b. Music The metric unit between two bars on the staff; a bar. v. meas·ured, meas·ur·ing, meas·ures v.tr. 1. a. To ascertain the dimensions, quantity, or capacity of: measured the height of the ceiling. b. To mark, lay out, or establish dimensions for by measuring: measure off an area. c. To mark off or apportion, usually with reference to a given unit of measurement: measure out a pint of milk. d. To allot or distribute as if by measuring; mete: The revolutionary tribunal measured out harsh justice. 2. a. To estimate by evaluation or comparison: "I gave them an account ... of the situation as far as I could measure it" (Winston S. Churchill). b. To bring into comparison: She measured her power with that of a dangerous adversary. 3. To serve as a measure of: The inch measures length. 4. To consider or choose with care; weigh: He measures his words with caution. 5. Archaic To travel over: "We must measure twenty miles today" (Shakespeare). v.intr. Phrasal Verb: 1. To be of a specific measurement: The room measures 12 by 20 feet. 2. To take a measurement. 3. To allow of measurement: White sugar measures more easily than brown. measure up Idioms: 1. To be the equal of something; have similar quality. 2. To have the necessary qualifications: a candidate who just didn't measure up. beyond measure 1. In excess. 2. Without limit. for good measure In addition to the required amount. in a/some measure To a degree: The new law was in a measure harmful. [Middle English, from Old French mesure, from Latin mēnsūra, from mēnsus, past participle of mētīrī, to measure; see mē-2 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] measur·er n.  (click for a larger image) measurefrom "Roses of the South," a waltz by Johann Strauss the Younger |
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