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Glossary:Uncertainty of Measurement
A parameter, associated with the result of a measurement, that characterizes the dispersion or range of the values that could reasonably be attributed to the quantity measured.
(Note 1 - The parameter may be, for example, a standard deviation (or a given multiple of it), or the half-width of an interval having a stated level of confidence.
Note 2 - Uncertainty of measurement comprises, in general, many components. Some of these components may be evaluated from the statistical distribution of the results of series of measurements and can be characterized by experimental standard deviations. The other components, which also can be characterized by standard deviations, are evaluated from assumed probability distributions based on experience or other information.
Note 3: It is understood that the result of the measurement is the best estimate of the value of the measurand, and that all components of uncertainty, including those arising from systematic effects, such as components associated with corrections and reference standards, contribute to the dispersion.
Note 4: The definition of uncertainty can also apply to characterize the dispersion for estimated values and calculated values.)[1]