Measure \Meas"ure\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Measured; p. pr. & vb.
n. Measuring.]
[F. mesurer, L. mensurare. See Measure,
n.]
1. To ascertain by use of a measuring instrument; to compute
or ascertain the extent, quantity, dimensions, or capacity
of, by a certain rule or standard; to take the dimensions
of; hence, to estimate; to judge of; to value; to
appraise.
Great are thy works, Jehovah, infinite Thy power!
what thought can measure thee? --Milton.
2. To serve as the measure of; as, the thermometer measures
changes of temperature.
3. To pass throught or over in journeying, as if laying off
and determining the distance.
A true devoted pilgrim is not weary To measure
kingdoms with his feeble steps. --Shak.
4. To adjust by a rule or standard.
To secure a contented spirit, measure your desires
by your fortunes, not your fortunes by your desires.
--Jer. Taylor.
5. To allot or distribute by measure; to set off or apart by
measure; -- often with out or off.
With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to
you again. --Matt. vii.
2.
That portion of eternity which is called time,
measured out by the sun. --Addison.
To measure swords with one, to try another's skill in the
use of the sword; hence, figuratively, to match one's
abilities against an antagonist's.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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