Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Scale \Scale\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Scaled}; p. pr. & vb. n.
   {Scaling}.]
   To weigh or measure according to a scale; to measure; also,
   to grade or vary according to a scale or system.

         Scaling his present bearing with his past. --Shak.

   {To} {scale, or scale down}, {a debt, wages, etc.}, to reduce
      a debt, etc., according to a fixed ratio or scale. [U.S.]

Scaling \Scal"ing\ (sk[=a]l"[i^]ng), a.
   1. Adapted for removing scales, as from a fish; as, a scaling
      knife; adapted for removing scale, as from the interior of
      a steam boiler; as, a scaling hammer, bar, etc.

   2. Serving as an aid in clambering; as, a scaling ladder,
      used in assaulting a fortified place.

Source : WordNet®

scaling
     n 1: the act of arranging in a graduated series [syn: {grading}]
     2: act of measuring or arranging or adjusting according to a
        scale
     3: ascent by or as if by a ladder