base unit

noun

: one of a set of fundamental units in a system of measurement that is based on a natural phenomenon or established standard and from which other units may be derived

The base units of the International System of Units are the meter, kilogram, second, ampere, kelvin, mole, and candela.

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The base unit can take four stackable satellite batteries, increasing its total capacity to more than 30,000 watts; Zendure's Smart Home Panel can connect the base to your home's electrical circuits to supply power throughout the house. —

Dan Diclerico, goodhousekeeping.com, 4 Apr. 2023 Heat is then transferred from this plate interface to cooling fluid that runs through the system’s cabling, pushed around by a motor in the base unit. —

Andrew Williams, WIRED, 28 Feb. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'base unit.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of base unit was in 1867

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Base unit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/base%20unit. Accessed 4 Jun. 2023.

Copy Citation

Medical Definition

base unit

noun

: one of a set of simple units in a system of measurement that is based on a natural phenomenon or established standard and from which other units may be derived see international system of units

Last Updated: 10 Apr 2023 - Updated example sentences