measure

UK: ˈmeʒə | US: ˈmeʒər

Definition
  1. n. a unit or standard used to quantify size, amount, or degree

  2. vt. to determine the size, amount, or degree of something using a standard

  3. vi. to be of a specified size or quantity

Structure
meas <to mete out>ure <noun suffix>meas <to mete out>ure <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "measure" traces back to Latin mensura, meaning "a measuring." It entered Old French as mesure before being adopted into Middle English. The root meas- reflects the act of apportioning or quantifying, while -ure turns the action into a noun. This logical progression—from the verb "to measure" to the noun "a measure"—highlights its enduring role in systems of quantification.

Examples
  1. The tailor used a tape to measure the fabric.

  2. Success cannot always be measured in financial terms.

  3. The government introduced new measures to reduce pollution.

  4. The recipe calls for a measure of flour and sugar.

  5. Her kindness is beyond measure.