English Reference

Word

metrics

US/ˈmɛtɹɪks/

UK/mˈɛtɹɪks/

Definitions

01performance measures

B2

n. numbers or data used to measure and track the success of a project or business.

n. standards of measurement by which efficiency, performance, or progress can be assessed.

“The marketing team looked at the engagement metrics to see if the new ad worked.”

“The board of directors requested a comprehensive report on key performance metrics to evaluate the company's growth over the last fiscal year.”

Academic · Technical

Usage

Often used in the plural form when referring to business or data analysis.

02study of poetic rhythm

C2 · Literary

n. the study of the rhythm and sounds in poetry.

n. the mathematical or systematic study of metrical structure and rhythm in verse.

“In her literature class, she studied the metrics of ancient Greek poetry.”

“The professor's lecture focused on the complex metrics of Milton's epic poetry, specifically his use of iambic pentameter.”

Academic · Formal

Usage

Usually functions as an uncountable noun in this context.

Synonyms

prosodyversification

03theory of measurement

C1 · Science

n. the scientific study or theory of how we measure things.

n. the branch of science or mathematics concerned with the theory and application of measurement.

“The scientist published a paper on the metrics of quantum physics.”

“Advancements in the metrics of spatial data have allowed for much more precise global positioning systems.”

Technical · Academic

Synonyms

metrology

Real-World Examples

“The tags are small, have long-lasting batteries and solar panels, and track dozens of metrics.”
Phys.org · 29 Aug 2026
“By most metrics, it would be hard to call either of those projects a success.”
BBC News · 22 Aug 2026

Etymology

Derived from the Greek metrikos, pertaining to measurement, and the suffix -ics, denoting a branch of study or knowledge. The term follows the linguistic pattern of physics and mathematics.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Domain

Monitoring

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

Scan code

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English Reference