Metre: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived from the Greek word 'metron,' which means measure.
• The term has been used in various languages across Europe, emphasizing its continental origins.
• The metric system was officially adopted in France during the late 18th century, leading to the widespread use of this unit across many countries.

Science

• The metre is the base unit of length in the International System of Units (SI), crucial in scientific and engineering contexts.
• It was originally defined in 1791 as one ten-millionth of the distance from the North Pole to the equator.
• Current definitions are based on the speed of light; specifically, one metre is defined as the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 seconds.

Cultural Impact

• Countries adopting the metric system have renamed various public measurements, promoting easier international understanding.
• The metre is a key part of the metric system, which is now used almost universally, except in a few countries like the USA.
• Street signs in metric countries often use metres for distance, enhancing clarity for travelers and residents alike.

Mathematics

• In geometry, a metre is essential for calculating many properties, such as area and volume.
• Conversion between units often begins with the metre, making it a foundational measure in mathematics.
• Metres are also used to calculate speed, as speed is often given in metres per second in scientific contexts.

Art and Literature

• In poetry, 'metre' refers to the rhythmic structure, drawing a connection between the precision of measurement and the art of language.
• Writers use metre to create flow and cadence in their work, illustrating how structure can affect meaning and emotion.
• Other art forms, like dance, incorporate measurements like metres to describe space and movement, showcasing the versatility of this term.

Ranked #10,192, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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