What does breathalyser mean?
A breathalyser is a device used to measure the concentration of alcohol in a person's breath. It is typically used by law enforcement or in medical settings to determine whether a person is over the legal limit for driving. The device works by analyzing the breath sample and providing a reading of the alcohol level. Breathalyser devices are commonly used in roadside sobriety checks and in medical settings to diagnose alcohol-related disorders. The use of breathalyser devices has become increasingly widespread in recent years, with many countries adopting them as a standard tool for detecting drunk driving. While breathalyser devices are generally accurate, they can be affected by various factors, such as the presence of mouthwash or other substances that can interfere with the test results. As a result, it is essential to use breathalyser devices in conjunction with other methods of determining a person's sobriety.
nounA device used to measure the concentration of alcohol in a person's breath, typically used to determine whether a person is over the legal limit for driving.
- A device used to measure the concentration of alcohol in a person's breath.
"The police officer used a breathalyser to check the driver's blood alcohol level."
"The police officer used a breathalyser to check the driver's blood alcohol level."
"The breathalyser device beeped loudly when it detected a high level of alcohol."
The plural form 'breathalysers' is used when referring to multiple devices or when the context requires a collective noun.
"The police department uses several breathalysers to conduct roadside sobriety checks."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of breathalyser
The word 'breathalyser' is derived from the verb 'analyse', which means to break down or examine something in detail. The term 'breathalyser' was first used in the 1960s to describe a device that measured the concentration of alcohol in a person's breath. The device was developed in the 1950s, but it was not until the 1960s that it became widely used in law enforcement and medical settings.
How breathalyser is actually used
Breathalyser is typically used in a formal or official context, such as by law enforcement or in medical settings.