liter

noun

li·​ter ˈlē-tər 

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

Before the storm’s arrival, placed millions of liters of water and many meals in staging areas where they could be quickly distributed in North Carolina, Criswell said. —Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 24 Jan. 2025

Since the start of the century, the average cost per liter of wine has increased from $10 to $14. —Ash Reynolds, NBC News, 19 Jan. 2025

Mendoza’s hot, dry climate can produce grapes with sugar levels as high as 235 grams per liter, while in a rainy year in Cahors the berries can struggle to reach levels of 170 grams. —Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 12 Jan. 2025

This expandable option goes from 30 to 40 liters with the tug of a zipper and can hold eight pairs of pants, eight shirts, a laptop, shoes, and more. —Miles Walls, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French litre, from Medieval Latin litra, a measure, from Greek, a weight

First Known Use

1797, in the meaning defined above

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

ˈlēt-ər 

: 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