liter

noun

li·​ter ˈlē-tər How to pronounce liter (audio)
variants or litre
: a metric unit of capacity equal to one cubic decimeter see Metric System Table

Examples of liter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This is a chic and practical pick for travelers, thanks to the adjustable strap and large one-liter capacity. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 26 Oct. 2025 The World Raid is aimed at folks who want to get as far away from home as possible on two wheels, so its dual fuel tanks – slightly lighter and more streamlined for 2026 – hold just over 6 gallons (23 liters) for more than 300 miles (500 km) of range. New Atlas, 25 Oct. 2025 There’s also a 96-liter dual-zone freezer box. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 24 Oct. 2025 Heisenberg received 150 liters (some 40 gallons) of heavy water from Norway, which had been occupied the previous fall by the German army. Literary Hub, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for liter

Word History

Etymology

French litre, from Medieval Latin litra, a measure, from Greek, a weight

First Known Use

1797, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of liter was in 1797

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Liter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liter. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

liter

noun
li·​ter
variants or litre
ˈlēt-ər
: a metric unit of capacity equal to one cubic decimeter see metric system

Medical Definition

liter

noun
li·​ter
variants or chiefly British litre
: a metric unit of capacity equal to the volume of one kilogram of water at 4°C (39°F) and at standard atmospheric pressure of 760 millimeters of mercury

More from Merriam-Webster on liter

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