metre
UK: ˈmiːtə | US: ˈmiːtər
n. the fundamental unit of length in the metric system, equal to 100 centimeters
n. (poetry) the rhythmic structure of a verse, determined by patterns of stressed and unstressed syllables
The word "metre" originates from the Greek "metron" (μέτρον), meaning "measure." It entered English via French ("mètre") in the late 18th century, during the adoption of the metric system. The Greek root "metr-" reflects its foundational role in measurement, later specialized for both physical length and poetic rhythm. The silent "-e" in British English preserves the French influence, while American English often drops it ("meter").
The room is three metres long.
The poem follows a strict iambic metre.
Scientists use metres to quantify wavelengths.
She measured the fabric in metres.
The metre of this song feels irregular yet harmonious.