centimeter

noun

cen·​ti·​me·​ter ˈsen-tə-ˌmē-tər  ˈsän- 

: a unit of length equal to 1/100 meter see Metric System Table

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In the metric system, which is used in most countries of the world, each basic unit of measure of length, area, or volume can be divided into centimeters. A meter consists of 100 centimeters, a square meter consists of 10,000 square centimeters, and a cubic meter consists of 1,000,000 cubic centimeters.

Examples of centimeter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

At the centimeter scale, researchers controlled mini-boats using audible frequencies to activate individual cavities for steering and navigation. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 17 Aug. 2026

An inspection by the Department of Health found that Kimbrell removed more than the statutory limit of 4,000 cubic centimeters of supernatant fat during a liposuction on May 13, 2024. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 16 Aug. 2026

Some higher-altitude places on the Big Island, dominated by Mauna Kea, have been hit with as much as 35 inches (89 centimeters) of rain. — ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026

Products like Cambria’s 1-centimeter slabs expand possibilities for fireplace surrounds, accent walls, and other vertical applications. — Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing centimeter

• centimeter-gram-second

Rhymes for centimeter

• amphitheater
• bolometer
• centimetre
• decimeter
• ergometer
• expositor
• gasometer
• gravimeter
• hexameter
• manometer
• milliliter
• millimeter

Kids Definition

centimeter

noun

cen·​ti·​me·​ter ˈsent-ə-ˌmēt-ər  ˈsänt- 

: a unit of length equal to ¹⁄₁₀₀ meter see metric system

Medical Definition

centimeter

noun

cen·​ti·​me·​ter

variants or chiefly British centimetre

ˈsent-ə-ˌmēt-ər  ˈsänt- 

: a unit of length equal to ¹/₁₀₀ meter