barometer - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
barometer Word Meanings
- an instrument measuring atmospheric pressure
- a gauge of change or trends in a situation
barometer Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
barometer Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bəˈrɒmɪtə/
US
/bəˈrɑːmɪtər/
barometer Word Etymology
Root: baro- (pressure) + meter (measure). Originated from Latin 'barometre' via Old French. Imagine a device that slowly rises and falls with the air pressure, like a balloon inflating and deflating, indicating weather changes and moods.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Barometer is an instrument that measures atmospheric pressure and helps predict the weather. In practice the needle rises with higher pressure and falls with lower pressure, signaling changes in the forecast. Beyond weather, barometer is widely used figuratively to describe a gauge of changes or trends in a situation, such as 'the polls are a barometer of public opinion' or 'consumer confidence serves as a barometer of the economy.' The word comes from baro- (pressure) and meter (measure), borrowed from Latin barometre via Old French. When used metaphorically, think of barometer as a general indicator rather than a precise device. The plural is barometers.
Usage Reminders
- - Learn both literal and figurative uses
- - Remember common phrases like 'barometer of public opinion'
- - Distinguish from weather instruments like a thermometer
- - Use the plural 'barometers' for multiple devices
- - Use barometer to describe trends, not exact measurements
- - Watch for collocations with nouns like opinion, mood, economy
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing barometer with a thermometer
- Thinking it only relates to weather, not opinions or trends
- Using a literal device in all contexts of change
- Forgetting the plural when talking about multiple devices
- Mixing up with a barometric pressure reading in science texts
Thinking Differences
In English, barometer is common as both a literal device and a flexible metaphor in journalism and everyday speech. Learners often mis-use it by treating it as a weather-only term or by over-literalizing its figurative use.
Learning Tips
- Learn the literal vs metaphorical senses separately
- Practice collocations: barometer of public opinion, barometer of mood
- Compare with thermometer to avoid confusion
- Use in writing to describe trends, not precise measurements
- Remember the plural barometers when talking about multiple devices
- Read news to see how authors use barometer in metaphor
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'barometer'?
A.A type of climbing gear
B.A device for measuring air pressure
C.A festive holiday decoration
D.A style of painting
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using the word 'barometer'.
A.The chef used a barometer to cook the perfect steak.
B.The barometer is an essential tool for tracking weather changes.
C.She looked at the barometer to see how tall the mountain was.
D.He checked the barometer to decide which movie to watch.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'barometer'?
A.Thermometer
B.Calculator
C.Telephone
D.Dictionary
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'barometer'?
A.Anemometer
B.Ineffective indicator
C.Insulator
D.Calibrator
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where a barometer might be used?
A.Meteorologists rely on various tools to forecast the weather effectively.
B.His mood can serve as a gauge for how well the team is performing.
C.Climbers often use a barometer to predict weather changes at different altitudes.
D.One might use an app to check the forecast before making plans today.
Related Listening
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