A meter is the base unit of length in the metric system, a little over three feet. Every other metric length unit is a power of ten times a meter, which is why metric conversion only moves the decimal point.
Math Dictionary / Meter
Meter
A meter is a metric unit of length equal to 100 centimeters.
MeasurementGrade 3Grade 4Grade 5Grade 6GED
What it means
Meters are often used to measure room lengths, heights, and short distances.
Also called: m
Examples
| 1 m = 100 cm |
| 1000 m = 1 km |
| A doorway may be about 2 meters tall |
Common mistake
Do not confuse meters with centimeters; a meter is much longer.
Try one
Question: How many centimeters are in 3 meters?
Show answer
300 centimeters.