millimeter

UK: ˈmɪlɪˌmiːtə | US: ˈmɪləˌmiːtər

Definition
  1. n. a unit of length equal to one thousandth of a meter (0.001 m).

Structure
milli <one thousandth>meter <measure>
Etymology

The word "millimeter" combines the Latin-derived prefix "milli-" (from "mille," meaning "thousand") with "meter" (from Greek "metron," meaning "measure"). The prefix "milli-" denotes a division by a thousand, reflecting the metric system's decimal logic. The term emerged in the late 18th century alongside the metric system's standardization, emphasizing precision in scientific and industrial measurements.

Examples
  1. The thickness of a credit card is about 0.76 millimeters.

  2. The scientist measured the specimen to the nearest millimeter.

  3. A millimeter of rainfall can significantly affect soil moisture.

  4. The gap between the parts must not exceed two millimeters.

  5. Precision engineering often requires tolerances of less than a millimeter.