plumb line

/ˌplʌm ˈlaɪn/
/pləmb laɪn/
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Other forms: plumb lines

Definitions of plumb line
  1. noun
    a cord from which a metal weight is suspended pointing directly to the earth's center of gravity; used to determine the vertical from a given point
    synonyms: perpendicular
    see moresee less
    types:
    lead line, sounding line
    (nautical) plumb line for determining depth
    plumb rule
    a plumb line attached to a narrow board
    type of:
    cord
    a line made of twisted fibers or threads
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