# kilo

/ˈkɪˌɫoʊ/ (US) · /kˈiːləʊ/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/kilo
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a unit of weight equal to 1,000 grams. It is the standard way to measure how heavy things like food or people are in most countries.

For teachers: a unit of mass in the metric system equivalent to 1,000 grams. A shortened form of 'kilogram', used frequently in both spoken and written contexts.

## Examples

- I need to buy a kilo of apples for the pie.
- The recipe calls for half a kilo of flour and three large eggs.
- Standardizing the kilo was a major scientific achievement, ensuring that trade and research remained consistent across international borders regardless of local measuring traditions.

## Usage notes

- Often used with 'of' before the substance being weighed.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.