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scale2

Pronunciation: /skeɪl/

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Definition of scale

noun

1 (usually scales) an instrument for weighing, originally a simple balance ( a pair of scales) but now usually a device with an electronic or other internal weighing mechanism: bathroom scales kitchen scales
(also scale pan) either of the dishes on a simple balance.
(the Scales) the zodiacal sign or constellation Libra.

2South African a large drinking container for beer or other alcoholic drink.

verb

weigh a specified weight:some men scaled less than ninety pounds

Phrases

throw something on (or into) the scale: contribute something to one side of an argument or debate: we should have thrown on the other scale all that was moderate in the Liberal Party as well
tip (or turn) the scales: see tip².

Origin:

Middle English (in the sense 'drinking cup', surviving in South African English): from Old Norse skál 'bowl', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch schaal, German Schale 'bowl', also to English dialect shale 'dish'

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Definition of scale in the US English dictionary

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Other

scale2

noun

verb

Phrases

throw something on (or into) the scale

tip (or turn) the scales

Origin:

scale in other Oxford dictionaries

Nearby words

More results for scale

More words in this category

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