Metric
Etymology
From Greek "metron" (a measure), by way of "metrikos" (of measuring). The word long meant relating to measurement in general — as in metric system — before business adopted the noun for any single tracked number. Its ancient root is the humble act of measuring out.
noun · /MEH-trik/
Any quantity you measure to understand or judge something.
What it names
The raw currency of measurement, reminding you that what gets counted quietly shapes what gets valued.
Example
They had a dashboard of thirty metrics but no idea which one actually predicted revenue.
Related idea
Every KPI is a metric, but most metrics are not KPIs — many are "vanity metrics" that look impressive and change nothing. The skill is telling a number that matters from a number that merely moves.
adjective · /MEH-trik/
Relating to the metric system of measurement, based on meters, grams, and liters.
What it names
the decimal system used across most of the world.
Example
Convert the recipe from cups to metric units.
Related idea
Same root as the noun — Greek "metron," a measure.