perimeter
Perimeter (noun) means the total distance around the edge of a shape. Example: “She measured the perimeter of the garden before ordering fencing.”
How to use perimeter
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe outside edge of a shape or area, or the total length around it.
Word forms
perimeters plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She measured the _____ of the garden before ordering fencing.
Etymology
From Greek perimetros, from peri- ("around") + metron ("measure").
Related words
Rhymes for perimeter
See all rhymes for 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."