var|i|om|e|ter

var|i|om|e|ter «_VAIR ee OM uh tuhr», noun.

1. an instrument for comparing the intensity of magnetic forces, especially the magnetic force of the earth at different points.

2. Electricity. an apparatus consisting of a coil of insulated wire connected in series with and designed to turn inside a similar coil and so to vary the inductance.

3. an instrument used in an airplane, especially a glider, for showing the rate at which it rises or descends, usually in units of 100 feet a minute.

╂[< Latin varius various + -meter]