meter
word
Definition
A meter is a unit of length equal to 100 centimeters. It can also mean a device that measures something, such as electricity, water, time, or parking.
Usage & Nuances
In everyday English, the meaning depends on context: a measurement unit, a utility device like an 'electric meter', or a 'parking meter'. British English usually spells the length unit 'metre', while American English uses 'meter' for both. Common combinations: 'one meter long', 'water meter', 'meter reading'.
Example Sentences
The table is one meter long.
basic
The electric meter is in the basement.
basic
I put coins in the parking meter.
basic
Can you check the meter and see how much water we used?
natural
The room looked bigger online, but it's barely three meters wide.
natural
The parking meter ran out while we were having coffee.
natural