caliper: Meaning and Definition of

cal•i•per

1. Usually,an instrument for measuring thicknesses and internal or external diameters inaccessible to a scale, consisting usually of a pair of adjustable pivoted legs.
2. any of various calibrated instruments for measuring thicknesses or distances between surfaces, usually having a screwed or sliding adjustable piece. Cf. vernier caliper.
3. thickness or depth, as of paper or a tree.
4. Usually,the pincers of an earwig.
5. the part of a disc-brake assembly that straddles the disc and presses the brake pads against it. See illus. under
6. a similar part used with a hand brake on a bicycle.

1. to measure with calipers.

1. to use calipers.