An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

To adjust or determine, by comparison with a standard, the response magnitude of a measuring instrument as a function of the input signal. For example, to determine line wavelengths in the spectrum of an astronomical object, or to graduate a hygrometer.

Etymology (EN): From M.Fr. calibre, via Sp. or It., from Ar. qalib “a mold, last,” perhaps from Gk. kalopodion “a shoemaker’s last,” from kalon “wood” + podos gen. of pous “foot.”

Etymology (PE): Kabizidan, verbal form of kabiz (varianats kaviz, kaviž, kafiz) “a measure for grain, a bushel,” from Mid.Pers. kabiz “a grain measure,” loaned in Arm. kapic “a grain measure,” and in Gk. kapithe, as attested in Xenophon.