Metre Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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metre
[หmiหtษr ]
Definition
unit of length
A metre is a unit of length in the metric system, equal to 100 centimetres. It is the base unit of length in the International System of Units (SI). The metre was originally defined in 1793 as one ten-millionth of the distance from the equator to the North Pole, but it is now defined as the distance that light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 seconds.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The length of the table is 2 metres.
- The sprinter finished the race in 10 seconds, covering a distance of 100 metres.
- The speed limit on this road is 60 kilometres per hour, which is equivalent to 0.06 kilometres per minute.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'metre'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'metre' originated from the French word 'mรจtre', which in turn came from the Latin word 'metrum', meaning 'measure'. The adoption of the metric system in the late 18th century led to the standardization of the metre as a unit of length. It has since become one of the most widely used measurement units worldwide.