Meter and metre mean the same thing—they both describe a unit of length in the metric system equal to 100 centimeters. The difference is in spelling, and that comes down to where you are. In American English, you’ll see meter. In British English and most places outside the U.S., it’s metre.

Using “Meter”

In American English, meter is standard when talking about measurements, especially in science or technical writing. It’s also the word for devices that record usage—electricity, gas, water, and so on.

Examples:

  • The lab had a meter for testing electrical resistance.
  • We put in a new water meter to track our household use.
  • She ran the 200-meter dash in under 20 seconds.

Using “Metre”

Outside the U.S., you’ll use metre for the same metric unit. It works in everyday measurements, technical work, and even in casual speech. The meaning’s the same—it’s just the spelling that changes.

Examples:

  • Cut the cloth into strips three metres long.
  • The pool measures ten metres by twenty-five metres.
  • They’re putting up a hundred-metre tower downtown.

Definitions, Parts of Speech, and Pronunciation

Meter

  • Meaning: In U.S. English, a length of 100 centimeters. Can also mean a measuring device.
  • As a noun (length): The race was 400 meters long.
  • As a noun (device): The cab driver switched on the meter when we got in.
  • Pronounced: /ˈmiː.tər/ (stress on first syllable)

Metre

  • Meaning: In British English, the same unit—100 centimeters. Also used in poetry for rhythm patterns.
  • As a noun (length): He cleared a two-metre fence.
  • As a noun (poetry): The poem’s iambic metre gave it a steady beat.
  • Pronounced: /ˈmiː.tə/ (same as meter)

Quick Takeaway

Same meaning, different spelling. Meter is American; metre is British and used in other English-speaking regions. Both sound the same, and which one you choose depends on your audience. In writing, that small spelling choice signals the variety of English you’re using.