Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—C

Calibre

[kal'i-ber]. A mind of no calibre: of no capacity. A mind of great calibre: of large capacity. Calibre is the bore of a gun, and, figuratively, the bore or compass of one's intelligence.

“The enemy had generally new arms ... of uniform caliber.”—Grant: Memoirs, vol. i. chap. xxxix. p. 572.

“We measure men's calibre by the broadest circle of achievements.” —Chapin: Lessons of Faith, p. 16.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Caliburn
Caliban
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