: any of various instruments for measuring angles of elevation or inclination

Word History

Etymology

Greek klinein to lean

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of clinometer was in 1811

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Clinometer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clinometer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

clinometer

noun
: an instrument for measuring angles of elevation or slope
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