A metric unit of volume equal to 1000 cubic centimeters, used to measure liquids and gases in most countries around the world.
From French 'litre,' which came from Greek 'litra' meaning a unit of weight. The metric system was invented in 1790s France, and they chose this ancient Greek term for their new volume measurement.
The litre is the British/Canadian spelling, while 'liter' is American—it's a holdover from French influence in Canada and Britain! The metric system tried to make one universal system, but English spelling habits kept the French spelling in some countries.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.