Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner's English Dictionary - calibre

(calibres) Note: in AM, use 'caliber' 1. The calibre of a person is the quality or standard of their ability or intelligence, especially when this is high. I was impressed by the high calibre of the researchers and analysts... N-UNCOUNT: with supp, usu adj N, N of n 2. The calibre of something is its quality, especially when it is good. The calibre of teaching was very high. N-UNCOUNT: with supp, oft N of n 3. The calibre of a gun is the width of the inside of its barrel. (TECHNICAL) ...a .22 calibre rifle. N-COUNT: usu with supp, oft num N, adj N