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Kilogram Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kilogram

[ˈkɪləˌgræm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

unit of measurement

A kilogram is a unit of measurement equal to 1000 grams. It is commonly used to measure the weight or mass of an object.

Synonyms

kg, kilo.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
kilogram

Used in formal or scientific contexts, official documents, or where precision is required.

  • The weight of the package is exactly 5 kilograms
  • The standard unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI) is the kilogram
kg

Used as an abbreviation in contexts where space is limited such as labels, charts, or informal texts.

  • This bag of flour is 2 kg
  • The label on the product says it contains 1
  • 5 kg of sugar
kilo

Used in informal conversations and contexts where the exactness of language is not crucial.

  • I need a kilo of apples for the recipe
  • He bought a kilo of rice from the store

Examples of usage

  • The package weighed 2 kilograms.
  • She bought 1 kilogram of apples.
  • We need to convert the weight from pounds to kilograms.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

In informal usage, a kilogram can refer to a large amount or quantity of something.

Synonyms

a large quantity, a lot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
kilogram

Used to measure weight or mass in scientific and everyday contexts.

  • The bag of rice weighs 5 kilograms.
  • She lost 3 kilograms after starting her new diet.
a lot

Used in informal settings to mean a significant number or amount, often without specifying an exact measurement.

  • He has a lot of homework to do.
  • There are a lot of people at the concert.
a large quantity

Used when referring to an extensive amount of something, often something that is not easily counted or measured by weight.

  • The recipe calls for a large quantity of flour.
  • There is a large quantity of data to analyze.

Examples of usage

  • She has a kilogram of homework to do.
  • He has a kilogram of books to read.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In 1795, the French adopted the kilogram as part of the metric system, which allowed for easier calculations and standardization of measurements.
  • As of 2019, the kilogram is defined by a fundamental constant of nature (Planck's constant), moving away from a physical object used in laboratories.

History

  • The original standard for the kilogram was a platinum cylinder kept in France, known as the 'International Prototype of the Kilogram', introduced in 1889.
  • This prototype was replaced in 2019 when the kilogram became defined by a constant in physics, marking a significant shift in how we measure weight.

Pop Culture

  • In the film 'The Martian', characters discuss the importance of precise measurements, highlighting how even small changes in weight, like a kilogram, can impact space missions.
  • Fitness and health industries often use kilograms to represent weight in gym settings, linking everyday fitness goals to this measurement unit.

Technology

  • Smart scales available today can display weight in kilograms, integrating technology with everyday life and health monitoring.
  • The use of kilograms is essential in designing packages for shipping, ensuring weight limits are respected for safe transportation.

Origin of 'kilogram'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'kilogram' comes from the French 'kilogramme', which combines 'kilo-' (meaning a thousand) and 'gram' (a small unit of weight).
  • Originally defined in the late 18th century, it was based on a liter of water, showcasing the practical application of everyday materials in measurement.

The word 'kilogram' originated from the French 'kilogramme', which was adopted from the Greek 'khilioi' meaning a thousand and 'gramma' meaning a small weight. The kilogram was originally defined as the mass of one liter of water, but it is now defined by a physical object called the International Prototype of the Kilogram, which is a platinum-iridium cylinder kept in France. In 2019, the kilogram was redefined based on fundamental constants of nature.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,184, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.