Definition

A device that measures how quickly something is speeding up or slowing down, often used to detect vibrations.

Example

The smartphone uses an accelerometer to detect its orientation and movement.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an accelerometer?

Yeah, I think it's used in smartphones, right?

Exactly! It measures the phone's movement and orientation.

That's so cool! I didn't know it had such a useful function.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Accelerometer → It is formed from "accelerare" (meaning to hasten or increase speed) and "-meter" (meaning measure). The word refers to a device that measures acceleration or the rate of change of velocity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hastening' or 'increasing speed' ('accelerare') and 'measuring' ('-meter') — that's what an accelerometer does; it measures how quickly something speeds up.

Visually Confused Words