meter
UK[ˈmiːtə]US[ˈmiːt̬ɚ]
n
a device that measures and records the amount of something used, the distance travelled, or the time elapsed
n
the basic unit of length in the metric system
v
to measure something using a meter
Etymology
The word 'meter' has a direct lineage from the ancient concept of measurement. It originates from the Greek word 'metron', meaning "a measure" or "that by which something is measured". This Greek term itself stems from the widespread Proto-Indo-European root me-, which carries the fundamental meaning "to measure". The modern English word retains this core semantic essence, applying it both to the standard unit of length and to the various instruments designed for measuring quantities like electricity, gas, or distance. The journey from an abstract Greek noun for measurement to the specific, standardized unit and its associated devices illustrates a clear logical progression from a general concept to its concrete, technological applications.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword. It entered English from French 'mètre', which derived from Greek 'metron', meaning "a measure". The ultimate origin is the Proto-Indo-European root me- (to measure).
Examples
The electricity meter is read monthly to calculate the bill.
The race was exactly one hundred meters long.
The taxi fare is metered by distance and time.