What does magnetometer mean?
A magnetometer is an instrument that measures the strength and direction of magnetic fields. Its most familiar application is the study of the Earth's magnetic field, which helps geologists map underground structures, geophysicists investigate the planet's interior, and archaeologists identify buried features such as ditches, walls, and hearths. Magnetometers are also used in navigation, space exploration, medicine, and the development of electronic equipment. Unlike a simple compass, a magnetometer can quantify magnetic-field components and detect subtle changes in them. The term is most often encountered in scientific, surveying, and engineering contexts rather than in everyday conversation. Its name combines the idea of magnetism with the suffix '-meter', indicating an instrument for measuring magnetic forces.
nounAn instrument for measuring the strength and direction of a magnetic field, especially the Earth's magnetic field. It is used in navigation, geology, archaeology, and the study of magnetic materials.
- An instrument for measuring the strength and direction of a magnetic field.
- A device used to detect and measure magnetic fields, including the Earth's magnetic field.
"The researchers used a magnetometer to survey the area for variations in the Earth's magnetic field."
"A magnetometer mounted on a spacecraft recorded variations in the planet's magnetic field."
"The archaeologist carried a magnetometer across the field to identify features hidden beneath the soil."
The usual plural form, with the standard spelling -meters in American English and -metres in British English only when the word itself is spelled with that suffix.
"The team placed several magnetometers around the excavation site."
A magnetometer can reveal hidden structure: archaeologists use magnetic surveying to locate buried ditches, walls, and kilns that leave traces in the soil.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of magnetometer
The word is formed from magnet and the combining form -ometer, meaning an instrument that measures. Magnet itself comes through Latin from Greek magnētēs, a term for lodestone, a naturally magnetized stone. The measuring suffix derives from Greek metron, meaning measure. The compound entered English in the 19th century as scientific terminology for instruments designed to quantify magnetic intensity and direction.
Related word forms
How magnetometer is actually used
The word is chiefly technical and formal. In British English, the final syllable may be pronounced with a non-rhotic sound, as in /mæɡˈnɛtəmɪtə/.
Easily confused with magnetometer
A magnetometer measures the intensity and direction of a magnetic field, whereas a compass primarily indicates magnetic north and is itself an application of magnetic measurement.