calibration

noun

cal·​i·​bra·​tion ˌka-lə-ˈbrā-shən How to pronounce calibration (audio)
Synonyms of calibrationnext
1
: the act or process of calibrating : the state of being calibrated
2
: a set of graduations to indicate values or positions
—usually plural
calibrations on a gauge

Examples of calibration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While this trend signals mounting pressure across financing conditions, analysts note that a modest retrenchment in market risk exposure represents a healthy calibration, serving as a buffer to mitigate concentrated risk spillovers. — CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026 For example, muscle signals have been strong and consistent, says Glass, and calibration between intent and gesture may last months, compared to the daily recalibration required with some surface EMG. — Greg Uyeno, IEEE Spectrum, 20 Oct. 2026 Three in college, and four later, gambling with the delicate calibration that exists between a meager bone density—after four years of iron deficiency, amenorrhea, and a propensity for fracturing—and a need for running like breathing, like air. — Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2026 Formlabs’ pre-tuned resin profiles are designed to spare you the usual exposure calibration, although PreForm still allows manual adjustments. — Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for calibration

Word History

Etymology

calibr(ate) + -ation

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of calibration was in 1852

Rhymes for calibration

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Browse Nearby Words

calibrated airspeed
calibration
calibrator
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Cite this Entry

“Calibration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calibration. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on calibration

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for calibration

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about calibration

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