What does out of plumb mean?
Rachel Newton
Updated on April 11, 2026
Similarly, it is asked, what does off plumb mean?
It's often used in the phrases "out of plumb" and "off plumb" to mean "out of vertical or true," or "not precisely vertical." As an adjective, plumb mostly is used to mean "exactly vertical," as in "a plumb wall."
One may also ask, what is the meaning of plumb line? noun. a cord with a lead bob attached to one end, used to determine perpendicularity, the depth of water, etc. Compare plumb (def. 1).
In respect to this, what does it mean if something is plumb?
It's an adjective when it describes something that is perfectly vertical: "The wall is plumb." It's a verb when it identifies the action of making something plumb: "You must plumb the post before pouring the footing." It's an adverb is usages such as "Check the fence for plumb."
What does half a bubble off plumb mean?
Strange; silly; crazy. Referring to the bubble inside a level. A: "She's a sweet old lady, but yeah, she's definitely half a bubble off plumb." B: "OK, yeah, I was sort of startled when she started talking to her rosebush."
Related Question Answers
How do you make something plumb?
When something is plumb, it means it's straight up and down. If a post installed in flat ground is leaning in any direction, it's out of plumb. If it's at a 90-degree angle to the ground on all sides, it's plumb. To be plumb is to be parallel with the force of gravity.What is the difference between plumb and level?
Level is always gauged by a device, such as a carpenter's level, but level does not always mean parallel to the ground. Plumb is vertical, most accurately gauged by a plumb bob. Levels can show when posts are plumb.Where did the term plumb come from?
The plumb in this case has to do with a plumb line, a line often weighted with lead to determine verticality. This plumb derives from Latin word for the element lead, plumbum, which is abbreviated on the periodic table as Pb.How do you use a plumb bob?
How to Use A Plumb Bob- Measure two to three few inches away from the top of the wall, and make a mark.
- Set a nail in the mark.
- Hang the plumb bob on the nail, letting gravity draw a vertical reference line for you.
- When the plumb bob is done oscillating, measure the distance from the wall.