Ta*chom"e*ter (?), n. [Gr. swiftness, speed (fr. quick) + -meter: cf. F. tachometre.]
An instrument for measuring the velocity, or indicating changes in the velocity, of a moving body or substance.
Specifically: --
(a)
An instrument for measuring the velocity of running water in a river or canal, consisting of a wheel with inclined vanes, which is turned by the current. The rotations of the wheel are recorded by clockwork.
(b)
An instrument for showing at any moment the speed of a revolving shaft, consisting of a delicate revolving conical pendulum which is driven by the shaft, and the action of which by change of speed moves a pointer which indicates the speed on a graduated dial.
(c) Physiol.
An instrument for measuring the velocity of the blood; a haematachometer.
© Webster 1913.