Definition

A weight that is subtracted from the total weight to account for the weight of a container or packaging.

Example

The tare of the box was taken into account when weighing the shipment.

Conversation

Do you remember when we had to weigh the ingredients for that recipe?

Yeah, I do! We forgot to account for the tare weight of the bowl.

Exactly! It made the measurements all off.

Next time, let’s use a scale that has a tare function to make it easier.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To find out the weight of an empty container so that it can be subtracted from the total weight of the container and its contents.

Example

Before weighing the apples, she needed to tare the scale to account for the weight of the bowl.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Hey, do you know how to tare a scale before weighing something?

Yeah, you just need to set it back to zero with the container on it.

Got it! I always forget that step when I'm measuring ingredients.

Root Explanation

Tare originates from Old French *tare*, meaning a deduction from the gross weight of goods to account for the weight of the container. It refers specifically to the weight of the container or packaging that is not included in the total weight of the goods being measured.

Memory Tip

Think of the weight of a container being 'deducted' from the total weight — that's what tare means.

Visually Confused Words