What does metric mean?
A metric is a unit, standard, or quantitative indicator used to measure something. The term is especially associated with the metric system, whose units include the metre, kilogram, and litre, although "metric" also has the broader sense of any clearly defined measure of performance or progress. In business and technical writing, terms such as revenue, engagement, reliability, and conversion rate may be described as metrics when they are tracked numerically to show how a system or organisation is performing. In discussions of poetry, a metric is a pattern of rhythm and stress based on the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables. Here, "metric" relates closely to "metrical," which describes verse governed by such a pattern. Across these senses, the word connects measurement with systematic evaluation: it identifies something precise enough to be compared, tracked, or used as the basis for a judgement.
A unit or standard of measurement, especially one belonging to the metric system; also, a quantitative indicator used to assess performance or progress.
"The new metric revealed that response times had improved substantially."
In business and technical contexts, the plural "metrics" is common and often refers to several indicators tracked together.
Relating to measurement or a system of measurement, especially the metric system; also relating to the rhythmical structure of verse.
"The engineers converted the pressure reading into metric units."
When referring specifically to poetic rhythm, "metrical" is often more precise.
The plural is especially common for quantitative indicators of performance, progress, or business results.
"The team reviewed the metrics before deciding whether to expand the service."
The metric system reduced competing measurement systems to a shared decimal structure, making the metre the scientific descendant of a word that once meant the measure of poetic verse.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does metric come from?
The word comes through French métrique from Latin metricus, an adjective derived from Greek metron, meaning "measure." The same Greek root also underlies metre, metronome, and words such as geometry and diameter. In English, metric developed both the general sense of measurement and the specialised meaning relating to poetic rhythm inherited from the classical study of metre.
Related word forms
How metric is actually used
In formal technical and business contexts, the noun commonly means a measurable indicator, as in performance metrics. In discussions of poetry, metric refers to rhythm and stress patterns. British English generally uses "metre" for the poetic unit and measurement unit, while US English commonly uses "meter"; "metric" is standard in both varieties.
Easily confused with metric
A metric is a measurement or quantitative standard, whereas a metrical property is one concerning the rhythmical structure of verse.