calibration

noun

cal·​i·​bra·​tion ˌka-lə-ˈbrā-shən How to pronounce calibration (audio)
Synonyms of calibrationnext
1
: the act or process of calibrating : the state of being calibrated
2
: a set of graduations to indicate values or positions
—usually plural
calibrations on a gauge

Examples of calibration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The broader test is whether AI agents can learn similar troubleshooting and calibration tasks for other scientific hardware. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026 Bridges and overhangs were clean, confirming excellent exposure calibration and the printer's ability to resolve intricate features without sacrificing dimensional accuracy. — Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026 High performers who are not considered manager favorites may find their accomplishments minimized, their mistakes scrutinized more heavily and their contributions receiving less advocacy during calibration and promotion discussions. — Lauren Russell, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 Astronomical instruments require calibration before use, and this is accomplished by targeting a familiar object in the sky and tuning the instruments to how that object should appear. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for calibration

Word History

Etymology

calibr(ate) + -ation

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of calibration was in 1852

Rhymes for calibration

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Browse Nearby Words

calibrated airspeed
calibration
calibrator
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Cite this Entry

“Calibration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calibration. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on calibration

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for calibration

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about calibration

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