Centimeter is 0.01 meter units.
Centimeters to Decimeters Converter — cm to dm
Convert Centimeter (cm) to Decimeter (dm) using the exact conversion factor (1 centimeter = 0.1 decimeter). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, history, and common uses.
Centimeters to Decimeters converter
Converter
Length Converter
Convert SI, imperial, US customary, astronomical, scientific, and historical length units.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
Decimeter is 0.1 meter units.
Result = input x 0.01 / 0.1.
Length uses the meter as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Centimeters to Decimeters
Centimeter and Decimeter both measure length. Centimeter is most often used for everyday small-object and body measurement (height, clothing sizes) outside the us.
Formula
decimeters = centimeters × 0.1
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 centimeter equals 0.01 base units, and 1 decimeter equals 0.1 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct centimeter-to-decimeter factor of 0.1.
Simple example
1 cm × 0.1 = 0.1 dm
1 centimeter = 0.1 decimeters.
Real-world example
10 cm × 0.1 = 1 dm
10 centimeters = 1 decimeter.
Conversion table
| Centimeter (cm) | Decimeter (dm) |
|---|---|
| 1 cm | 0.1 dm |
| 5 cm | 0.5 dm |
| 10 cm | 1 dm |
| 21.0975 cm | 2.10975 dm |
| 42.195 cm | 4.2195 dm |
| 100 cm | 10 dm |
Reverse conversion: Decimeter to Centimeter
0.1 dm × 10 = 1 cm
0.1 decimeters = 1 centimeters.
centimeters = decimeters × 10
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Decimeter to Centimeter.
Understanding the Centimeter
Centimeter (cm) measures distance. A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter. It is classified as a SI derived (metric prefix) unit.
Where it's used: Standard small-length unit worldwide except the US
Uses of the Centimeter today
- Everyday small-object and body measurement (height, clothing sizes) outside the US
- Construction and manufacturing tolerances internationally
History of the Centimeter
The centimeter follows directly from the meter via the 'centi-' SI prefix (10⁻²), introduced with the metric system in the 1790s.
Historical origin. Centimeter was not the invention of a single named person; it developed through the process described above.
Understanding the Decimeter (dm)
Decimeter is 0.1 meter units.
Centimeter — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — SI prefixes — Defines 'centi-' as the prefix for 10⁻².
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many decimeters are in 1 centimeter?
1 centimeter equals 0.1 decimeters, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert centimeter to decimeter?
Multiply the centimeter value by 0.1. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert decimeter back to centimeter?
Use the reverse factor: 1 decimeter equals 10 centimeters. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a centimeter?
Centimeter (cm) measures distance. A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter. It is classified as a SI derived (metric prefix) unit.
What is a decimeter?
Decimeter (dm) is a unit of length.
Is the centimeter to decimeter conversion exact?
Yes. Both centimeter and decimeter are defined by fixed standards rather than physical artifacts, so the factor of 0.1 used above is exact to as many digits as you choose to display.
Where is the centimeter still used today?
Standard small-length unit worldwide except the US