(~s)
Note: in AM, use 'caliber'
1.
The ~ of a person is the quality or standard of their ability or intelligence, especially when this is high.
I was impressed by the high ~ of the researchers and analysts...
N-UNCOUNT: with supp, usu adj N, N of n
2.
The ~ of something is its quality, especially when it is good.
The ~ of teaching was very high.
N-UNCOUNT: with supp, oft N of n
3.
The ~ of a gun is the width of the inside of its barrel. (TECHNICAL)
...a .22 ~ rifle.
N-COUNT: usu with supp, oft num N, adj N