perimeter

Language: en

🇺🇸 /pɜrˈɪmətɜr/

📖 Definitions

  1. noun
    The continuous line forming the boundary of a closed geometric figure; the total length of this boundary.; The outer boundary or edge of an area, region, or object.; A fortified strip or boundary around a military position or defended area.; In ophthalmology, an instrument used to measure the field of vision.; The outer limits or scope of something abstract, such as knowledge or influence.

🔗 Details

Word forms

countable Plural: perimeters

Collocations

perimeter fenceperimeter wallperimeter securityperimeter of a circleperimeter of a squarebreach the perimeter

Derivatives

perimetricperimetrical

Synonyms

boundaryborderedgecircumferenceoutlinecontour

Antonyms

centerinteriorcore

Commonly confused

parameter
EN: 'Parameter' refers to a variable or limiting factor (e.g., in math or computing); 'perimeter' refers to the outer boundary or its total length.
circumference
EN: 'Circumference' specifically refers to the perimeter of a circle or other curved shape; 'perimeter' is the general term for the boundary of any shape.

Spelling tips

EN: Do not confuse 'perimeter' (boundary) with 'parameter' (a variable or limit). The prefix 'peri-' means 'around,' which can help you remember it relates to the outer edge.

💬 Examples

  1. The perimeter of the square is 20 centimeters.

  2. Security guards patrolled the perimeter of the compound.

  3. The troops held the perimeter against repeated enemy attacks.

  4. The optometrist used a perimeter to test the patient's peripheral vision.

  5. The research expanded the perimeter of our understanding of quantum mechanics.