Definition

A unit of length that is very small, equal to one femtometer, which is one quadrillionth of a meter.

Example

The size of atomic nuclei is often measured in fermis.

Conversation

Did you know that a fermi is a unit of length?

Yeah, I've heard of it, but I didn't know it was so small!

It's equal to one femtometer, which is pretty tiny.

That's fascinating! I can't even imagine something that small.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

This word originates from Italian, named after the physicist Enrico Fermi, who contributed significantly to the development of nuclear physics and quantum theory. The term 'fermi' is often used in scientific contexts to refer to a unit of length in nuclear physics, specifically one femtometer, which is one quadrillionth of a meter.

Memory Tip

Think of Enrico Fermi, the physicist, when you hear 'fermi' — it helps you remember that this term is related to his contributions in the field of nuclear physics.

Visually Confused Words