Definition of meter
(Entry 1 of 6)
1a
: systematically arranged and measured rhythm (see rhythm sense 1) in verse:
(1)
: rhythm that continuously repeats a single basic pattern
iambic meter
(2)
: rhythm characterized by regular recurrence of a systematic arrangement of basic patterns in larger figures
ballad meter
b
: a measure or unit of metrical verse
—usually used in combination pentameter
— compare foot sense 4
c
: a fixed metrical pattern : verse form
2
: the basic recurrent rhythmical pattern of note values, accents, and beats per measure in music
meter
noun (2)Definition of meter (Entry 2 of 6)
: one that measures
especially
: an official measurer of commodities
meter
noun (3)Definition of meter (Entry 3 of 6)
: the base unit of length in the International System of Units that is equal to the distance traveled by light in a vacuum in ¹/₂₉₉,₇₉₂,₄₅₈ second or to about 39.37 inches — see Metric System Table
meter
noun (4)Definition of meter (Entry 4 of 6)
1
: an instrument for measuring and sometimes recording the time or amount of something
a parking meter a gas meter
meter
verb
metered; metering; meters
Definition of meter (Entry 5 of 6)
1
: to measure by means of a meter
2
: to supply in a measured or regulated amount
3
: to print postal indicia on by means of a postage meter
-meter
noun combining formDefinition of -meter (Entry 6 of 6)
: instrument or means for measuring
barometer
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
February 2021 Words of the Day Quiz
-
- Which is a synonym of perdure?

Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share meter
Time Traveler for meter
The first known use of meter was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century