Definition

A tool used to measure how hot or cold something is, usually with a glass tube that contains a liquid that moves up or down depending on the temperature.

Example

The doctor used a thermometer to check my temperature when I was feeling sick.

Conversation

Do you have a thermometer I can borrow?

Sure! It's in the kitchen drawer next to the spices.

Thanks! I need to check the temperature of the soup.

No problem, it should help you get it just right.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thermometer → It is formed from "thermo-" (from Greek "thermos", meaning heat) and "-meter" (from Greek "metron", meaning measure). The word "thermometer" refers to an instrument that measures heat or temperature.

Memory Tip

Think of 'heat' ('thermo-') being 'measured' ('-meter') — that's how a thermometer tells you the temperature.

Visually Confused Words