liter

noun

li·​ter ˈlē-tər How to pronounce liter (audio)
variants or
: 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.
So, how powerful is a 27-liter V-12? Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 10 Nov. 2025 Despite its small size, this portable bag boasts a one-liter capacity that can carry all of your daily travel essentials, combining convenience, security, and style for anyone on the move. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 9 Nov. 2025 With adaptations like a 20,000-liter rear center fuel tank, the Airbus A350-1000ULR will be able to fly for up to 22 hours straight. Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 7 Nov. 2025 This Lululemon bag holds 5 liters of stuff, which is on the bigger than almost all of the brand's popular belt bags. Alyssa Grabinski, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 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 13 Nov. 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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