scale
2
(sk
l)
KEY
NOUN:
-
- A system of ordered marks at fixed intervals used as a reference standard in measurement:
a ruler with scales in inches and centimeters.
- An instrument or device bearing such marks.
- A standard of measurement or judgment; a criterion.
-
- A proportion used in determining the dimensional relationship of a representation to that which it represents:
a world map with a scale of 1:4,560,000.
- A calibrated line, as on a map or an architectural plan, indicating such a proportion.
- Proper proportion:
a house that seemed out of scale with its surroundings.
- A progressive classification, as of size, amount, importance, or rank:
judging divers' performances on a scale of 1 to 10.
- A relative level or degree:
entertained on a lavish scale.
- A minimum wage fixed by contract:
musicians playing a benefit concert for scale.
-
Mathematics
A system of notation in which the values of numerical expressions are determined by their places relative to the chosen base of the system:
the decimal scale.
-
Music
An ascending or descending collection of pitches proceeding by a specified scheme of intervals.
VERB:
scaled
,
scal·ing
,
scales
VERB:
tr.
- To climb up or over; ascend:
scaled the peak.
- To make in accord with a particular proportion or scale:
Scale the model to be one tenth of actual size.
- To alter according to a standard or by degrees; adjust in calculated amounts:
scaled down their demands; scaled back the scheduled pay increase.
- To estimate or measure the quantity of lumber in (logs or uncut trees).
VERB:
intr.
- To climb; ascend.
- To rise in steps or stages.
ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Latin
sclae,
ladder; see
skand- in Indo-European roots
OTHER FORMS:
scal
a·ble
(Adjective)
