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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

Inchworm \Inch"worm`\, n. (Zool.)
The larva of any geometrid moth. It progresses forward by
first bringing the rear end of the body forward, forming a
loop, then moving the front part of the body; called also
{measuring} worm, {measuringworm}, {spanner}, and {looper}.
See {Geometrid}.
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Measuring \Meas"ur*ing\, a.
Used in, or adapted for, ascertaining measurements, or
dividing by measure.
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{Measuring faucet}, a faucet which permits only a given
quantity of liquid to pass each time it is opened, or one
by means of which the liquid which passes can be measured.


{Measuring worm} (Zool.), the larva of any geometrid moth.
They are so called because they move by a process in which
they first pull the rear legs forward toward their front
legs, forming a loop which resembles the process of
measuring with a tape measure. The motion is completed by
subsequently moving the front legs forward to an advanced
position. See {Geometrid}.
[1913 Webster PJC]


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.
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Great are thy works, Jehovah, infinite
Thy power! what thought can measure thee? --Milton.
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2. To serve as the measure of; as, the thermometer measures
changes of temperature.
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3. To pass throught or over in journeying, as if laying off
and determining the distance.
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A true devoted pilgrim is not weary
To measure kingdoms with his feeble steps. --Shak.
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4. To adjust by a rule or standard.
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To secure a contented spirit, measure your desires
by your fortunes, not your fortunes by your desires.
--Jer. Taylor.
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5. To allot or distribute by measure; to set off or apart by
measure; -- often with out or off.
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With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to
you again. --Matt. vii.
2.
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That portion of eternity which is called time,
measured out by the sun. --Addison.
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{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.
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