A kilometer is 1,000 meters, roughly six tenths of a mile. The prefix kilo means one thousand, which is the same rule that makes a kilogram 1,000 grams.
Math Dictionary / Kilometer
Kilometer
A kilometer is a metric unit of length equal to 1,000 meters.
MeasurementGrade 4Grade 5Grade 6Grade 7GED
What it means
Kilometers are often used to measure longer distances, such as roads or race distances.
Also called: km
Examples
| 1 km = 1,000 m |
| 3 km = 3,000 m |
| 0.5 km = 500 m |
Common mistake
A kilometer is much longer than a meter, not shorter.
Try one
Question: How many meters are in 4 kilometers?
Show answer
4 kilometers = 4,000 meters.