from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Tasimer \Ta*sim"er\ (t[.a]*s[i^]m"[-e]*t[~e]r), n. [Gr. ta`sis
stretching, extension (from tei`nein to stretch) + -meter.]
(Physics)
An instrument for detecting or measuring minute extensions or
movements of solid bodies. It consists essentially of a small
rod, disk, or button of carbon, forming part of an electrical
circuit, the resistance of which, being varied by the changes
of pressure produced by the movements of the object to be
measured, causes variations in the strength of the current,
which variations are indicated by a sensitive galvanometer.
It is also used for measuring minute changes of temperature.
--T. A. Edison.
[1913 Webster]