Millimetre: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the metric system, where 'milli-' means one-thousandth, and 'metre' is the base unit for length.
• It was first defined in France during the late 18th century as part of the revolutionary metric system.
• The structure of the word reflects its mathematical meaning, combining prefixes and root words from Latin and Greek origins.

Science

• In scientific contexts, a millimeter is often used to measure small objects, like the thickness of a hair or the diameter of cells.
• Microscopes often use millimeters to define the size of specimens, underscoring its importance in biology and material sciences.
• In engineering, precise measurements in millimeters can be crucial for the fit and function of machine parts.

Everyday Life

• A standard paper clip is usually about 1 millimeter thick, giving a relatable visual for its size.
• Millimeters are often used in recipes to specify dimensions for cake layers or pastry thickness.
• Many consumer products, like smartphones, are advertised with their dimensions in millimeters to highlight slimness and size.

Global Usage

• The metric system, including millimeters, is used widely around the world, with the United States being one of the few countries still using imperial units predominantly.
• Millimeters facilitate easier calculations and conversions in engineering and scientific fields due to their decimal-based system.
• International standard regulations often require measurements to be recorded in millimeters for clarity and consistency.

Technology

• In 3D printing, precision is key; millimeters are crucial for creating detailed models and prototypes.
• Millimeters are frequently used in medical imaging to describe the resolution of images, determining how clear the scans are.
• Tech specifications, like camera sensors, often use millimeter measurements for focal lengths, influencing photography.

Positioned at #23,679, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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