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calibration

kal-ih-BRAY-shun /ˌkælɪˈbreɪʃən/

nounB2IELTSTOEFLGMAT

technicalscientific

The process of adjusting an instrument or mechanism so that it can be used to give an accurate measurement or perform precisely.

In modern cars, this often refers to 'software calibration'—tuning the computer code that controls the engine.

The story behind the word. The word traces back to the Arabic 'qalib,' a mold for casting metal. This became the Italian 'calibro,' referring to the size of a bullet. Eventually, 'calibration' came to mean checking that the 'caliber' (size or quality) of an instrument was correct.

Word relationships

fine-tuning: Fine-tuning is more informal; calibration implies a standard of measurement.

Commonly confused with

calculation: Calculation is a mathematical process; calibration is a physical or software adjustment.

Word family

calibrate (verb): To adjust for precision.
calibrator (noun): A device used for calibration.

Collocations

sensor calibration
engine calibration
factory calibration

Example sentences

"The fuel injectors require precise calibration to meet strict environmental emissions standards." Emissions testing.
"The calibration of the radar and camera sensors is essential for the safety of autonomous driving systems." Autonomous driving.

Memory hook

Calibration ensures the 'caliber' of the machine is high. Calibration = Precision adjustment.

When not to use

Don't use it for simple 'cleaning' or 'repairing'; it specifically means 'adjusting for accuracy.'

Fun facts

Even the scales at your local grocery store require periodic calibration by government officials.
In the 'Dieselgate' scandal, engineers used a 'defeat device'—a specific software calibration—to cheat on emissions tests.

Related words

telematics, aerodynamics

Explore more words

calibrate, standardized, quality control, standardize, observation, certification