Other

scale2

Syllabification: (scale)

Pronunciation: /skāl/

Translate scale | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish

Definition of scale

noun

(usually scales)

an instrument for weighing. Scales were originally simple balances ( pairs of scales) but are now usually devices with an internal weighing mechanism housed under a platform on which the thing to be weighed is placed, with a gauge or electronic display showing the weight.
(also scalepan) either of the dishes on a simple balance.
(the Scales) the zodiacal sign or constellation Libra.

verb

[with object] weigh a specified weight:some men scaled less than ninety pounds

Phrases

tip the scales: see tip².
tip the scales at: 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' Compare with skoal

scale in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of scale in the British & World English dictionary

Nearby words

More results for scale

More words in this category

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

scale2

noun

verb

Phrases

tip the scales

tip the scales at

Origin:

scale in other Oxford dictionaries

Nearby words

More results for scale

More words in this category

Word of the day

epithalamium