Meaning & Definition of word "Centimeter"

Centimeter

/ˈsɛntɪˌmiːtər/

noun:

  • 1. A metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter.
    • Example: The pencil is 15 centimeters long.
  • 2. A unit of measurement often used in various contexts such as science, engineering, and everyday measurements.
    • Example: The fabric was measured to be 120 centimeters in width.
  • 3. Commonly used to measure short distances or dimensions.
    • Example: The height of the plant is approximately 30 centimeters.
  • 4. Used globally as part of the metric system.
    • Example: The map scale indicated that 1 centimeter represents 10 kilometers.

Etymology

French centimètre, from 'centi-' meaning hundredth + 'mètre' meaning meter.

Common Phrases and Expressions

centimeter ruler:

A ruler that measures in centimeters.

centimeter squared:

A unit of area equal to the area of a square with sides of one centimeter.

centimeter mark:

A mark indicating measurement in centimeters.

Related Words

meter:

The base unit of length in the International System of Units.

millimeter:

A metric unit of length equal to one thousandth of a meter.

kilometer:

A metric unit of length equal to one thousand meters.

Slang Meanings of centimeter

Meaning: Used informally to describe a small size or measurement.

Example Sentence: He's not really tall, just a few centimeters short.