■ verb
1》 ascertain the size, amount, or degree of (something) by comparison with a standard unit or with an object of known size.
↘be of (a specified size or degree).
↘( ~ something out ) take an exact quantity of something.
2》 assess the extent, quality, value, or effect of.
↘( ~ up ) reach the required or expected standard.
3》 archaic travel over (a certain distance or area).
■ noun
1》 a means of achieving a purpose: cost-cutting ~s.
↘a legislative bill.
2》 a standard unit used to express size, amount, or degree.
↘an instrument such as a container, rod, or tape marked with standard units and used for measuring.
3》 ( a ~ of ) a certain amount or degree of.
↘an indication of extent or quality.
4》 the rhythm of a piece of poetry or a piece of music.
↘a particular metrical unit or group.
↘ N. Amer. a bar of music or the time of a piece of music.
5》 archaic a dance.
6》 ( ~s ) a group of rock strata.
7》 Printing the width of a full line of type or print, typically expressed in picas.
Phrases
beyond ~ to a very great extent.
for good ~ as an amount or item beyond that which is strictly required.
get (or take or have ) the ~ of assess or have assessed the character or abilities of.
in —— ~ to the degree specified.
Derivatives
~r noun
Origin
ME (also in the sense 'moderation'): from OFr. mesure , from L. mensura , from mens- , metiri '~'.