lactometer
Definition
Noun: A lactometer is a hydrometer used to measure the density or specific gravity of milk. It is typically used to determine the purity or fat content of milk, as the density of milk changes based on its composition.
Usage Examples
- (A device for measuring milk density.)
- (An instrument for testing milk purity.)
Advanced Usage
- "to read a lactometer": to interpret the scale on the device to determine milk quality.
- She carefully read the lactometer and noted the specific gravity reading. (She observed the measurement on the instrument.)
Variants and Related Words
- Lactometry (n): the measurement of milk density or composition using a lactometer.
- Lactometry is a common practice in dairy quality control. (The science of measuring milk properties.)
- Lactometric (adj): relating to or involving a lactometer.
- The lactometric analysis showed the milk was within normal parameters. (Pertaining to milk density measurement.)
Synonyms
- Hydrometer: a general instrument for measuring the density of liquids.
- Milk densitometer: a more specific term for a device that measures milk density.
Related Idioms
- (No common idioms are associated with "lactometer," as it is a technical term.)