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Glite Dictionary
dumpy level

dumpy level

9.8
A short telescope on a rotating base that surveyors use to measure level ground
  • noun
  • /ˈdʌm.pi ˈlɛv.əl/
  • UK
translation icon : nivel de topógrafo
  • The surveyor carefully set up the dumpy level to measure the elevation difference between the two points.

Examples

  • The engineer used a dumpy level to check the foundation.

  • Training included hands-on use of the dumpy level for accurate site measurements.

  • Before beginning construction, the engineers checked the ground flatness with a dumpy level.

  • A dumpy level is essential for accurate measurements.

  • Before beginning construction, the engineers checked the ground flatness with a dumpy level.

  • The surveyor carefully set up the dumpy level to measure the elevation difference between the two points.

  • Training included hands-on use of the dumpy level for accurate site measurements.

Synonyms

level
vsdumpy level
  • Specialized
145 3.2

A tool with a tube of liquid and a bubble to check if something is flat

uses a telescope and rotating mount to measure horizontal sightlines over distance
surveyor's level
vsdumpy level
  • Specialized
7.8

A small telescope with a bubble level on a rotating mount that measures land height differences

measures horizontal planes using a short fixed telescope on a rotating table
plumb level
vsdumpy level
  • Specialized
7.2

A tool with a hanging string and a bubble level to check vertical or horizontal lines

is a precision surveying device using a telescope and rotating mount for horizontal sighting

How Precise

stadiometer
  • Specialized
7.4
surveyor's level
  • Specialized
7.8
dumpy level
  • UK
9.8
spirit level
  • UK
1 4.1

Surface Forms

dumpy level singular
dumpy levels plural

Morphology

dumpy + level

The compound is compositionally built from 'dumpy' (short, stout) + 'level' (instrument for checking horizontality), so a B1 learner who knows both words can infer it is a short or compact type of leveling instrument. However, the precise technical features and surveying-specific sense (fixed short telescope, rotating table, spirit level use) are specialized and not fully predictable from the constituents, so it is not fully transparent.

Etymology

The noun dumpy level probably comes from dumpy, an old word for 'short and squat', and level, for the bubble device it uses. The image is a small, low instrument with a short telescope, so the name now means 'a small tool used to measure horizontal levels'.