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dipstick

dipstick

11 6.0
A rod with marks that you put into an engine or tank to check the liquid level
  • noun
  • /ˈdɪpˌstɪk/
translation icon : varilla medidora
  • The technician used a dipstick to measure the coolant level in the car's radiator.
  • urine dipstick
  • dipstick test

Examples

  • A urine dipstick test can be offered to detect blood, glucose, protein, leukocytes, and nitrites.

    Academic text (2012)
  • When servicing the machine, make sure to look at the dipstick for accurate fluid levels.

  • Testing the urine with a dipstick can identify blood cells and signs of infection.

    Academic text (2011)
  • Insert the dipstick inside the engine, withdraw it, and have a look at the oil level.

    Blog text (32)
  • Mrs. Brown's urine was clear, and dipstick urinalysis identified 3+ leucocytes, 1+ blood, 1+ protein.

    Academic text (2011)
  • Mrs. Brown described the passing of urine as 'sore', and had used creams to relieve symptoms; it was felt that a dipstick urinalysis and vaginal examination would clarify the diagnosis.

    Academic text (2011)
  • To check the engine oil, you should pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean.

Synonyms

measuring stick
vsdipstick
2 2.1

A long rod with marks for measuring length

measures liquid depth inside containers rather than linear distance

Idioms

9.9

To behave foolishly or clumsily

How Precise

sensor
898 3.4
gauge
  • Specialized
45 3.9
dipstick
11 6.0
estimate
370 2.6

Surface Forms

dipstick singular
dipsticks plural

Morphology

dipstick = dip + stick (transparent) = dip + stick

Meaning is directly built from 'dip' + 'stick': a stick used for dipping to check liquid level.

Etymology

The word dipstick comes from dip ('to put into liquid') and stick, because it is literally a stick you dip into a tank to read the marks and see the liquid level, so a dipstick is the marked stick used to check engine oil or coolant.