Definition
A cloud ceiling whose height above the ground has been determined by direct measurement rather than estimation. The measurement is typically made using a ceilometer, ceiling light, or ceiling balloon, which gives the actual height of the lowest broken or overcast cloud layer at the observation point.
Plain English
The height of the lowest solid cloud layer above the ground, found by actually measuring it with an instrument instead of guessing it by eye.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation weather reports, airport observations, and discussions of whether the cloud height is high enough for a planned flight or approach.
Derivation
From the Latin 'mensura' (a measuring) and 'caelum' (sky, heavens). 'Measured' signals the value came from an instrument; 'ceiling' carries the aviation sense of the lowest cloud layer that limits what's above as flyable airspace.
Why Pilots Care
Determines whether visual or instrument flight rules apply and whether takeoff or landing minimums are met.
Grounding Statement
If the report says the ceiling is measured, the cloud height is tied to a measuring method or known reference at that location.
Intuition Check
Measured does not mean simply “looked at carefully.” In this context, it means the ceiling height was determined using an instrument or a known height reference.
Example Sentence 1
The weather observer reported a measured ceiling of 800 feet using the ceilometer at the field.
Example Sentence 2
With the measured ceiling below approach minimums the crew elected to divert.