German word

Kaliber

Pronunciation

IPA/kaˈliːbɐ/

Meaning

  • neuter nouncaliber

Example

Die Patrone passt nicht zum Kaliber dieser Pistole.

This cartridge is not the right caliber for this pistol.

Illustration for Kaliber (caliber)

More examples

Die Kaliberangabe auf der Verpackung fehlte.

The caliber specification on the packaging was missing.

Core concept

A bore's diameter controls the fit of ammunition, while its imagined size marks a person's standing or ability.

Common phrases

  • das Kaliber der Patrone

    the cartridge's caliber

  • ein kleines Kaliber

    a small caliber

  • die Kaliberangabe

    caliber specification

Similar words

Durchmesser: The distance from one side of a circular shape to the other through its center.
Niveau: The level of performance, development, or achievement.
Qualität: The excellence or merits of a product, service, or piece of work.

Definition in German

Kaliber bezeichnet technisch den Innendurchmesser von Patronen oder Läufen und wird bildlich für Durchschlagskraft, Bedeutung oder Qualität verwendet.

Word origin

The German noun is a borrowing from Italian calibro, via French calibre, ultimately related to Arabic qālib for a mold or form.

Usage tips

  • The figurative phrase 'von großem Kaliber' is formal and describes a highly capable or influential person, not physical size.

Other meanings

  • qualitynoun

Related words

  • Kaliberangabecaliber specificationnoun

Word lists with this word