Defn: A number which is contained in a given number a number of times without a remainder; as in the phrases, the common measure, the greatest common measure, etc., of two or more numbers.
11. A step or definite part of a progressive course or policy; a means to an end; an act designed for the accomplishment of an object; as, political measures; prudent measures; an inefficient measure. His majesty found what wrong measures he had taken in the conferring that trust, and lamented his error. Clarendon.
12. The act of measuring; measurement. Shak.
13. pl. (Geol.)
Defn: Beds or strata; as, coal measures; lead measures. Lineal, or Long, measure, measure of length; the measure of lines or distances. — Liquid measure, the measure of liquids. — Square measure, the measure of superficial area of surfaces in square units, as inches, feet, miles, etc. — To have hard measure, to have harsh treatment meted out to one; to be harshly or oppressively dealt with. — To take measures, to make preparations; to provide means. — To take one's measure, to measure one, as for a garment; hence, to form an opinion of one's disposition, character, ability, etc. — To tread a measure, to dance in the style so called. See 9 (a). Say to her, we have measured many miles To tread a measure with her on this grass. Shak.
MEASURE
Meas"ure, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Measured; p. pr. & vb. n. Measuring.]
Etym: [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. Great are thy works, Jehovah, infinite Thy power! what thought can measure thee Milton.
2. To serve as the measure of; as, the thermometer measures changes of temperature.
3. To pass throught or over in journeying, as if laying off and determining the distance. A true devoted pilgrim is not weary To measure kingdoms with his feeble steps. Shak.
4. To adjust by a rule or standard. To secure a contented spirit, measure your desires by your fortunes, not your fortunes by your desires. Jer. Taylor.