Decameter: meaning, definitions and examples
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decameter
[ ˈdɛkəˌmiːtə ]
measurement unit
A decameter is a metric unit of length that is equal to ten meters. It is often used in fields such as construction and surveying where larger measurements are necessary. The symbol for decameter is 'dam'.
Synonyms
decametre.
Examples of usage
- The length of the swimming pool is 2 decameters.
- The tree is approximately 5 decameters tall.
- These two mountains are separated by 10 decameters.
- The distance to the nearest landmark is around 3 decameters.
Etymology
The term 'decameter' is derived from the Greek words 'deka', meaning 'ten', and 'metron', meaning 'measure'. It was officially adopted into the metric system in the 18th century when the metric system was developed during the French Revolution as a standard system of measurement. The metric system aimed to simplify and unify measurements across different regions and fields. Over time, the decameter has found its application in science, engineering, and various educational contexts where understanding of metric units is essential. It’s one of the lesser-used metric units, overshadowed by more common units like the meter and kilometer, but still useful in specific contexts.