Metre-stick

A rigid graduated rule exactly one metre long, used to measure length. Its markings provide a direct comparison between an object's length and the metre.

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Scale (measuring instrument): A set of ordered markings used to assign numerical values to measurements. The metre-stick’s graduations form a scale for comparing lengths.
Length: A physical quantity describing the extent of an object or the distance between positions. A metre-stick measures this quantity by comparing it with its marked interval.
Ruler: A straight measuring tool marked with units of length. A metre-stick is a long, rigid type of ruler.
Tape measure: A flexible strip marked with units for measuring lengths and distances. Unlike the rigid metre-stick, it bends and can measure around curves or across longer spans.
Parallax: An apparent shift in an object's position when viewed from different locations. Viewing a graduation from an angle can shift its apparent alignment with an object’s endpoint.
Metre: The SI base unit of length, defined by the fixed numerical value of the speed of light in vacuum. The stick’s one-metre length is expressed in this unit.
Meter bridge: An electrical circuit apparatus using a one-metre resistance wire to compare resistances. Its name and one-metre wire reflect a related laboratory use of metre-scale lengths.
Vernier caliper: A precision instrument with sliding jaws and a scale for measuring dimensions. It measures smaller dimensions more precisely than a typical metre-stick.
Zero error: A measurement offset caused when an instrument’s indicated zero differs from the true zero. A damaged or misaligned starting mark can bias every metre-stick reading.
International System of Units: The internationally agreed system of measurement units known as SI. The metre-stick’s unit belongs to this shared measurement system.