Liter

/ˈliːtər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A metric unit of volume equal to one cubic decimeter (1 L = 1 dm³), commonly used to measure liquids.
She poured a liter of water into the pot.
A unit of capacity in the metric system, equivalent to 1,000 cubic centimeters.
The recipe calls for two liters of milk.
A unit used to express the volume of a gas, often in conjunction with pressure and temperature.
The car's fuel tank holds 40 liters.
A measure of liquid in various contexts, such as beverages or chemicals.
He drank a liter of soda at the party.
An informal way to quantify large volumes in everyday language.
The rain was so heavy that the gauge measured over five liters.

Etymology

From French 'litre', from Greek 'litra' meaning a measure.

Common Phrases and Expressions

literally
In a literal manner; exactly.
liters of
Used informally to indicate a large quantity of something.

Related Words

milliliter
A unit of volume equal to one-thousandth of a liter.
gallon
A unit of volume used in the US and UK, equivalent to approximately 3.785 liters.

Slang Meanings

A large volume or quantity, informally expressed.
I drank a liter of coffee, I'm wired!