perimeter
6 synonyms and 1 antonym for perimeter, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The total distance around the edge of a shape.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
The total distance around the edge of a shape.
“She measured the perimeter of the garden before ordering fencing.”
2. noun
The outer boundary or edge of an area, especially one that is guarded or fortified.
“Soldiers patrolled the perimeter of the base all night.”
Opposites
How to use perimeter
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
perimeter fence
secure the perimeter
perimeter of a triangle
Etymology
From Greek perimetros, from peri- ("around") + metron ("measure").
Full origin of perimeter →Frequently asked questions
What does “perimeter” mean?
The word “perimeter” means the total distance around the edge of a shape. In plain terms, the outside edge of a shape or area, or the total length around it.
How do you pronounce “perimeter”?
“Perimeter” is pronounced pih-RIHM-ih-tuh (/pəˈɹɪm.ɪ.təɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “perimeter” in a sentence?
Here is “perimeter” used in a sentence: “She measured the perimeter of the garden before ordering fencing.”
What is another word for “perimeter”?
Words with a similar meaning to “perimeter” include circumference.
What part of speech is “perimeter”?
“Perimeter” is a noun.
Where does the word “perimeter” come from?
The word “perimeter” comes from Greek. From Greek perimetros, from peri- ("around") + metron ("measure").
Is “perimeter” a common word?
“Perimeter” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “perimeter” have?
“Perimeter” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the total distance around the edge of a shape.
What is the difference between perimeter and circumference?
Circumference specifically refers to the distance around a circle, while perimeter is the broader term for the total distance around the edge of any shape, circular or not.
What is the difference between perimeter and area?
Perimeter measures the total distance around the outer edge of a shape, a linear measurement, while area measures the amount of space enclosed within that boundary, a two-dimensional measurement.
What does "perimeter" mean in a security context?
In security and military contexts, perimeter refers to the outer boundary or edge of an area, especially one that is guarded or fortified, as in "perimeter defense" or "securing the perimeter."
