Centner

/ˈsɛntnər/ noun

Definition

A unit of weight used in several European countries, typically equal to 50 kilograms in Russia or 100 kilograms in some other regions.

Etymology

From German 'Zentner,' which derives from Medieval Latin 'centinarius' (containing a hundred), based on 'centum' (hundred). The centner was historically used for measuring bulk goods and continues in use today in Russia and Eastern Europe.

Kelly Says

The centner shows how countries that are neighbors can use the same word for completely different weights—Russia's centner is 50 kg while some countries use 100 kg, so you have to know where the shipment came from!

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