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 That estimate is for a person who drinks two liters of water daily for 70 years. Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 18 Apr. 2024 For a weekend backpacking trip or thru-hike, consider leveling up to 30-50 liters. Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 17 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for liter 

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

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

Dictionary Entries Near liter

Cite this Entry

“Liter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liter. Accessed 3 May. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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