thermometer
UK: θəˈmɒmɪtə | US: θərˈmɑːmɪtər
n. an instrument for measuring and indicating temperature
The word "thermometer" combines two Greek-derived morphemes:
- "thermo" (from Greek thermos, meaning "heat")
- "meter" (from Greek metron, meaning "measure")
The term emerged in the early 17th century when scientists began developing instruments to quantify temperature. The fusion reflects the device's core function: measuring heat intensity. The "-o-" linking vowel preserves Greek compound structure while maintaining English readability.
The nurse placed the thermometer under my tongue to check for fever.
Galileo invented an early version of the thermometer in 1593.
Digital thermometers provide faster readings than mercury models.
The outdoor thermometer showed -10°C during the snowstorm.
Always disinfect a thermometer between uses to prevent contamination.