centimetre

UK: ˈsɛntɪmiːtə | US: ˈsɛntɪmiːtər

Definition

  1. n. a metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter.

Structure
centi <hundred>metre <measure>
Etymology

The word "centimetre" combines the Latin-derived prefix centi- (meaning "hundred") with the Greek-derived root metre (from metron, meaning "measure"). It reflects the metric system's decimal logic, where a centimetre is 1/100th of a meter. The term emerged in the late 18th century during the metric system's development in France, blending Latin and Greek elements to standardize measurements scientifically.

Examples

  1. The pencil is exactly 15 centimetres long.

  2. Rainfall was measured at 2 centimetres overnight.

  3. Cut the fabric into strips 10 centimetres wide.

  4. A newborn’s head circumference averages 34 centimetres.

  5. The tumor grew by 3 centimetres in six months.