beam scale
1
5.2
- noun
- /biːm skeɪl/
- Specialized
:
balanza de brazo
- The laboratory used a beam scale to ensure the accuracy of their measurements.
- balance beam scale
Examples
-
Weight (without shoes) was measured to the nearest 0.5 kg using a physician's balance beam scale.
Academic text (2005) -
Height was measured with a stadiometer and weight with a balance-beam scale.
Academic text (2013) -
To weigh the ingredients precisely, she placed them on the beam scale in the kitchen.
-
The antique shop displayed an old beam scale that was once used for weighing grains.
Synonyms
33
2.8
A tool that measures weight, like a scale
A kind of scale with a long bar and a sliding weight that you use to weigh things
A small portable balance with a bar that turns on a point to weigh things
A tool with a horizontal beam and two pans that compares weights
A tool that measures weight using a metal spring and shows it on a scale
A small tool that measures weight or force by how much a metal coil stretches
A machine that measures small weights and shows the number on a digital screen
How Precise
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly compositional: a 'beam scale' is simply a type of scale that uses a beam or pivoted bar for weighing, so combining 'beam' (a long bar) with 'scale' (weighing instrument) yields the intended device. This is a literal, descriptive compound (not idiomatic) and follows a common cross-linguistic pattern, so a B1 learner who knows both words should be able to infer the meaning.
Etymology
Beam scale names a balance with a long bar called the beam that sits on a center point and holds pans on each side like a simple scale. The beam tips until the pans balance, so the device 'weighs' things.