Manometer \Ma*nom"e*ter\, n. [Gr. ? thin, rare + -meter: cf. F. manom[`e]tre.]

An instrument for measuring the tension or elastic force of gases, steam, etc., constructed usually on the principle of allowing the gas to exert its elastic force in raising a column of mercury in an open tube, or in compressing a portion of air or other gas in a closed tube with mercury or other liquid intervening, or in bending a metallic or other spring so as to set in motion an index; a pressure gauge. See Pressure, and Illust. of Air pump.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)