nilometer

noun

ni·​lom·​e·​ter
nīˈlämətə(r)
often capitalized
: a gauge for measuring the height of water in the Nile especially during its flood
specifically : a graduated scale cut on a natural rock or in the stone wall of a pit communicating with the river
nilometric
¦nīlə¦me‧trik
adjective often capitalized

Word History

Etymology

modification (influenced by English -meter) of New Latin nilometrion, from Greek neilometrion, from Neilos Nile, river in Africa + -metrion (from metron measure)

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Dictionary Entries Near nilometer

Nilo-Hamitic

nilometer

Nilot

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Nilometer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nilometer. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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