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.
One moringa seed can treat about 10 liters of water, the scientists found. Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 29 Apr. 2026 Across the fragrance industry, major houses are introducing large-format bottles — often one liter or more — not as refills, but as objects of presence. Sudhir Gupta, Rolling Stone, 27 Apr. 2026 These deliver over 100 gallons (400 liters) of extra pure water per mission. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 27 Apr. 2026 Rangers recommend that hikers bring plenty of water and sun protection year-round, and pack at least four liters of water during the hottest months. Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 27 Apr. 2026 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 1 May. 2026.

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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