Definition

1. Noun:
   • The internal diameter of a gun barrel or the diameter of a bullet or projectile: This is the primary technical meaning, referring to a specific measurement.
   • The quality, standard, or ability of someone or something; degree of excellence or worth: This figurative meaning is commonly used to assess character, intellect, or performance.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to diameter:

  • The pistol has a .45 calibre barrel.
  • These bullets are of a different calibre and will not fit the rifle.

• Referring to quality or standard:

  • We were impressed by the high calibre of the candidates.
  • The conference attracts speakers of the highest calibre.
  • His work is not of the required calibre for this publication.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• The term is often used in evaluative contexts to imply a ranking or comparative standard.
  • The calibre of the scientific research was exceptional.
• It can describe the nature or capacity of a person's mind or character.
  • He is a statesman of a different calibre altogether.

Variants and Related Words

• Caliber: The standard American English spelling of the word. The definitions are identical.
• Calibrate (verb): To mark or adjust a measuring instrument. This is related to the original measurement sense of 'calibre'.
  • The technician will calibrate the scale for accuracy.

Synonyms

• For diameter: Bore, gauge, diameter.
• For quality: Quality, standard, grade, stature, merit, ability, capacity.

Idioms and Common Phrases

• Of high/low calibre: Used to directly describe the standard of something.
  • The university produces graduates of the highest calibre.
  • The argument was of a surprisingly low calibre.
• A person of (a certain) calibre: A set phrase describing someone's inherent quality or ability.
  • We need a manager of her calibre to turn the department around.

Noun

1. diameter of a tube or gun barrel
2. a degree or grade of excellence or worth
   • the quality of students has risen
   • an executive of low caliber