Calliper

caliper.
Usually, calipers. an instrument for measuring thicknesses and internal or external diameters inaccessible to a scale, consisting usually of a pair of adjustable pivoted legs.
any of various calibrated instruments for measuring thicknesses or distances between surfaces, usually having a screwed or sliding adjustable piece.
Compare vernier caliper.
thickness or depth, as of paper or a tree.
Usually, calipers. the pincers of an earwig.
Automotive. the part of a disc-brake assembly that straddles the disc and presses the brake pads against it.
a similar part used with a hand brake on a bicycle.
to measure with calipers.
to use calipers.
Historical Examples

Harper’s Young People, July 20, 1880 Various
Harper’s Young People, July 20, 1880 Various
Harper’s Young People, July 20, 1880 Various

noun
(often pl) Also called calliper compasses. an instrument for measuring internal or external dimensions, consisting of two steel legs hinged together
(med) Also called calliper splint. a splint consisting of two metal rods with straps attached, for supporting or exerting tension on the leg
verb
(transitive) to measure the dimensions of (an object) with callipers
noun
the usual US spelling of calliper
n.
n.
caliper
(kāl’ə-pər)

An instrument consisting of two curved legs connected at a hinge, used to measure thickness and distance. Often used in the plural as calipers.