vernier

n. Vernier scale, short graduated scale that measures fractions of divisions on fixed scale; device that provides a tool with a higher level of accuracy (Machinery)

n. family name; Pierre Vernier (1580-1637), French mathematician

For the spacecraft component, see Vernier thruster. A vernier scale lets one read more precisely from an evenly divided straight or circular measurement scale. It is fitted with a sliding secondary scale that is used to indicate where the measurement lies when it is in-between two of the marks on the main scale.It was invented in its modern form in 1631 by the French mathematician Pierre Vernier (1580–1637). In some languages, this device is called a nonius, which is the Latin name of the Portuguese astronomer and mathematician Pedro Nunes (1492–1578) who invented the principle. Another theory is that this name is from the Latin "nona" meaning "9" and therefore "nonius" means a "ninth" of the main scale.
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Noun
1. French mathematician who described the vernier scale (1580-1637)
(synonym) Paul Vernier
(hypernym) mathematician

Noun
1. a small movable scale that slides along a main scale; the small scale is calibrated to indicate fractional divisions of the main scale
(synonym) vernier scale
(hypernym) scale

n. Vernier, family name

n. vernier, short graduated scale that measures fractions of divisions on fixed scale; device that provides a tool with a higher level of accuracy (Machinery)

n. vernier, Vernier scale, short graduated scale that measures fractions of divisions on fixed scale; device that provides a tool with a higher level of accuracy (Machinery)