perimeter

noun pe·rim·e·ter \pə-ˈri-mə-tər\

: the outside edge of an area or surface

: the total length of the lines that form a shape

the perimeter basketball : the area on a basketball court that is not close to the basket

Full Definition of PERIMETER

a : the boundary of a closed plane figure

b : the length of a perimeter

: a line or strip bounding or protecting an area

: outer limits —often used in plural

: the part of a basketball court outside the three-point line

See perimeter defined for English-language learners

See perimeter defined for kids

Origin of PERIMETER

Middle English perimetre, from Latin perimetros, from Greek, from peri- + metron measure — more at measure

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to PERIMETER

Synonyms: borderline, bound, boundary, brim, circumference, compass, confines, edge, edging, end, frame, fringe, hem, margin, border, periphery, rim, skirt, skirting, verge

Other Mathematics and Statistics Terms

abscissa, denominator, divisor, equilateral, exponent, hypotenuse, logarithm, oblique, radii, rhomb

Rhymes with PERIMETER

altimeter, delimiter

PERIMETER Defined for Kids

perimeter

noun pe·rim·e·ter \pə-ˈri-mə-tər\

Definition of PERIMETER for Kids

: the whole outer boundary of a figure or area

: the length of the boundary of a figure

Word Root of PERIMETER

The Greek word metron, meaning “measure,” gives us the root metr. Words from the Greek metron have something to do with measuring. A thermometer is an instrument that measures temperature. A diameter is the measurement across the center of a circle. The metric system is a system used for measuring size, weight, and volume. A perimeter is the measurement of the outside of a figure or shape.

Medical Dictionary

perimeter

noun pe·rim·e·ter \pə-ˈrim-ət-ər\

Medical Definition of PERIMETER

a : the boundary of a closed plane figure b : the length of a perimeter

: an instrument for examining the discriminative powers of different parts of the retina often consisting of an adjustable semicircular arm with a fixation point for the eye and variable stations for the visual stimuli