: an instrument for determining the pressure of the atmosphere and hence for assisting in forecasting weather and for determining altitude (see altitudesense 1a)
2
: something that indicates fluctuations (as in public opinion)
Originally, barometer referred to an instrument that measures atmospheric pressure. Although this meaning is still very much in use, the word has taken on a strongly figurative sense denoting something that signals changes in conditions not necessarily related to the weather. This extended use of barometer has existed since at least the early 18th century, when Isaac Bickerstaff used it in an article in The Tatler: “I have an Engine in my Study, which is a Sort of a Political Barometer, or, to speak more intelligibly, a State Weather-Glass.”
a legendary Broadway flop that has subsequently become the barometer by which failure in the theater is judged
Recent Examples on the WebAnyone can go out and beat a bad team or take the series, but this is the barometer. Joe Noga, cleveland, 24 Aug. 2022 The presence of songbirds is a barometer for the health of an ecosystem, and their numbers also seem to be considerably reduced from several years ago. Steve Meyer, Anchorage Daily News, 6 Aug. 2022 The season is also a barometer for the crucial holiday shopping season, West said. Jaclyn Peiser, Washington Post, 4 Aug. 2022 Head coach Ime Udoka has consistently preached the importance of making quick decisions and moving the ball, and Tatum’s ability to do so is often a barometer for how the Celtics fare. Trevor Hass, BostonGlobe.com, 2 June 2022 Turnovers have been a barometer for Phoenix in this series. Duane Rankin, The Arizona Republic, 14 May 2022 Early in the Williams sisters’ professional careers, the beads were a barometer for intensity when either sister hit the ball.Los Angeles Times, 28 Mar. 2022 Collins, who was among the few Senate Republicans to vote to convict Trump in his impeachment trial after the insurrection, may not be a barometer for most of the party. Zachary B. Wolf, CNN, 31 Jan. 2022 But regular-season action will be the true barometer for Green Bay's chances Sunday against Kansas City and Love's prospects as a reliable starting quarterback. Lorenzo Reyes, USA TODAY, 4 Nov. 2021 See More