Meter to Decimeter Converter

A meter (m) is the base unit of length in the International System of Units (SI). Originally defined as one ten-millionth of the distance from the Earth's equator to the North Pole, it is now defined by the speed of light in vacuum.

The meter was first defined in 1793 during the French Revolution as part of the metric system. Initially based on Earth's dimensions, it was later redefined using a platinum-iridium bar (1889), then by wavelengths of light (1960), and finally in 1983 by the distance light travels in vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second.

The meter is universally used in science, engineering, and most countries for everyday measurements. It's the standard for construction, manufacturing, sports (track and field), and scientific research. Most countries use meters for height, room dimensions, and short to medium distances.

A decimeter (dm) is a unit of length in the metric system equal to one-tenth of a meter (0.1 m). It provides a convenient intermediate measurement between centimeters and meters.

The decimeter was established as part of the original metric system in 1795. The prefix 'deci-' comes from the Latin word 'decimus' meaning 'tenth'. While part of the original system, it has seen limited adoption in most practical applications.

Decimeters are occasionally used in some European countries for certain measurements, particularly in education to help students understand metric relationships. They may appear in some technical drawings or scientific contexts, but centimeters and meters are generally preferred.