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Centimeter(cm)

The centimeter is a decimal subdivision of the meter used for small everyday measurements.

Reviewed September 4, 2026

Symbol: cm
Quantity: Length
Measurement system: SI
SI classification: Prefixed SI unit
Reference unit: Meter
Exact relationship: 1 cm = 0.01 m exactly

Visualizing centimeter

The marked distance represents a length of 1 cm. The illustration is conceptual and not drawn to physical scale.

What the centimeter is

The centimeter is a practical metric unit for small lengths. It is especially useful when precise but everyday measurements are needed.

Convert Centimeter