metre1
n.
the fundamental unit of length in the metric system, equal to 100 centimetres (approx. 39.37 inches).
Derivative
Etymology
C18: from Fr. mètre, from Gk metron ‘measure’.
metre2
n.
- the rhythm of a piece of poetry, determined by the number and length of feet in a line.
- the basic rhythmic pattern of beats in a piece of music.
Etymology
OE, reinforced in ME by OFr. metre, from L. metrum, from Gk metron ‘measure’.