scale
UK: skeɪl | US: skeɪl
n. a series of marks or levels used for measuring
n. the size or extent of something in relation to others
n. the outer protective layer of a fish or reptile
vt. to climb or ascend something
vt. to remove scales from a surface
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The word "scale" originates from the Old Norse skál, meaning "bowl" or "shell," referring to the protective layers of fish or reptiles. Over time, it expanded to denote measuring marks (like the "scales" of a balance) and later generalized to hierarchical systems (e.g., "scale of importance"). The verb form ("to scale a wall") metaphorically borrows from climbing as if ascending marked levels.
The map uses a scale of 1:10,000 to represent distances.
Economists study the global scale of trade.
The fisherman carefully removed the scales from the salmon.
Climbers scaled the cliff using specialized equipment.
This issue requires action on an international scale.