Centimeter

/ˈsɛntɪˌmiːtər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter.
The pencil is 15 centimeters long.
A unit of measurement often used in various contexts such as science, engineering, and everyday measurements.
The fabric was measured to be 120 centimeters in width.
Commonly used to measure short distances or dimensions.
The height of the plant is approximately 30 centimeters.
Used globally as part of the metric system.
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

Used informally to describe a small size or measurement.
He's not really tall, just a few centimeters short.