micrometer

• Nom masculin avec deux sens principaux : unité de longueur valant un millionième de mètre, et instrument de mesure de précision utilisé pour mesurer de très petites épaisseurs ou distances.

A noun with two primary meanings: a metric unit of length equal to one millionth of a meter, and a precision instrument used for measuring very small distances or thicknesses.

1. B2formalscientific

   A metric unit of length equal to one millionth of a meter, often used in science and engineering to measure very small distances.

   micromètre (unité de longueur)

   • A typical bacterium is about one micrometer in diameter.
   • The wavelength of visible light is measured in micrometers.
   • Engineers use micrometers to ensure precise manufacturing tolerances.

   Synonymesmicron

2. Measuring instrumentB1formaltechnical

   A caliper-like tool used to measure very small distances or thicknesses with high precision.

   micromètre (instrument de mesure)

   • He used a micrometer to measure the thickness of the wire.
   • The machinist adjusted the micrometer to 0.01 mm.
   • A digital micrometer provides easy‑to‑read measurements.