# kilogram

/ˈkɪɫəˌɡɹæm/ (US) · /kˈɪləɡɹˌæm/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/kilogram
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the standard unit for measuring how much something weighs. One kilogram is about the same weight as a liter of water or a thick book.

For teachers: the base unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI), equal to 1,000 grams. Originally defined by a physical prototype, it is now fixed by the Planck constant.

## Examples

- I bought a kilogram of apples at the market.
- The recipe requires exactly one kilogram of flour to ensure the bread has the correct texture.
- In scientific laboratories, mass must be measured with extreme precision, as even a fraction of a kilogram can alter the outcome of a chemical reaction.

## Pitfalls

- Not "two kilogram of sugar" but "two kilograms of sugar" — When used as a noun to indicate quantity, it must be pluralized if the number is greater than one.

## Usage notes

- Often abbreviated as 'kg' in both technical and everyday writing.

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