Definition
An electrical instrument used to measure the difference in electrical potential, expressed in volts, between two points in an electrical circuit. A voltmeter is connected in parallel with the component or circuit being measured.
Plain English
A device that measures voltage — the electrical pressure pushing current through a circuit. You place it across the part you want to check, not in line with it.
Context Anchor
Seen during aircraft electrical system checks, battery checks, cockpit instrument readings, and maintenance troubleshooting.
Derivation
From volt (the unit of electrical potential, named after Italian physicist Alessandro Volta) plus meter (a device that measures). Literally, a meter that reads volts.
Why Pilots Care
Confirms the aircraft electrical system is supplying the correct voltage for reliable operation of instruments, lights, and avionics.
Example Sentence 1
During the runup, the pilot glanced at the voltmeter and saw it reading 24 volts, confirming the alternator was charging normally.
Example Sentence 2
During an electrical system inspection, the mechanic read the voltmeter to confirm the alternator was producing proper output.