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.
Public health experts have emphasized that the standard amount added, 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water, is not dangerous and serves an important purpose. Cindy Krischer Goodman, Orlando Sentinel, 3 Mar. 2025 Forbes is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Drinking two liters of water a day is another tip both experts offered in addition to this. Laia Farran Graves, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 Sports drinks, such as Gatorade, are also allowed as long as they are unopened and less than a liter. Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 27 Feb. 2025 According to a Friday report from Argentina's Public Prosecutor's Office, originally written in Spanish, the One Direction star's blood alcohol level at the time of his death was 2.7 grams per liter, or 0.27% BAC, which is considered dangerously high. Taijuan Moorman, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 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 9 Mar. 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

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