mätare

Mätare is a Swedish noun meaning a device used to measure a quantity. The word comes from the verb mäta "to measure" combined with the agent suffix -are, yielding "one who measures" or "an instrument for measuring." In everyday language, mätare covers a wide range of instruments, from simple gauges to complex metering systems.

Common mätare include elmätare (electricity meter), which records household energy consumption, vattenmätare (water meter) for billing, and gasmätare for gas usage. Other specialized mätare describe physical properties such as tryckmätare (pressure gauge). In many contexts, mätare also denotes digital readouts or dial indicators used in manufacturing and laboratories.

Technically, meters operate by converting the measured quantity into a readable form, either mechanically (dial pointers) or electronically (display). Modern networks often employ smart or remotely read mätare that transmit readings to suppliers, enabling real-time monitoring and improved billing. Deployment is typically governed by national and European standards and requires calibration to ensure accuracy and traceability to SI units.

Because mätare is a general term, its exact meaning depends on context and the quantity being measured. In regulatory and commercial settings, meters used for billing fall under legal metrology, requiring regular verification and calibration against traceable standards.