Metre
A Dictionary of Law · William C. Anderson · 1889
A Dictionary of Law
or METER. The ten-millionth part of a quadrant of a terrestrial meridian — from the equator to the north pole. Practically, the length of a platinum bar intended to be equal to one ten-millionth of the meridian which passes through Paris, and equivalent to 39.368 American inches.
Metric system
A system for measuring length, capacity, surface, and weight, founded upon the metre as a unit. The act of July 28, 1866, re-enacted in Rev. St. §§ 3669-70 (where tables of equivalents are given), authorized the use of the system, and directed that standards be furnished to each of the States.