In to Cm Conversion Calculator
Click on the following link if you want to convert centimeters (cm) to inches (in)
History
The inch is an old unit of length that comes from ancient times. It was originally based on the width of a human thumb. Over the centuries, it was standardized in various countries, and in 1959, the international inch was officially defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters.
The centimeter (cm), on the other hand, belongs to the metric system, which started in France in the late 1700s. One centimeter equals one hundredth of a meter (1 cm = 0.01 m).
While inches are still used mainly in the United States, Canada, and the UK, centimeters are the global standard for everyday measurements.
Common Usage
- Inches (in) are common in the U.S. for measuring height, screen sizes, furniture, and construction materials.
- Centimeters (cm) are used in most of the world for body height, clothing, and precise measurements in science or design.
For example, a TV advertised as 55 inches has a diagonal screen size of about 140 cm.
Inches to Centimeters Conversion
The conversion formula is straightforward and exact:
cm = in × 2.54
Example:
Convert 10 inches to centimeters.
10 × 2.54 = 25.4 cm
So, 10 inches equals 25.4 centimeters.
Conversion Table
| Inches (in) | Centimeters (cm) |
|---|---|
| 1 in | 2.54 cm |
| 2 in | 5.08 cm |
| 5 in | 12.70 cm |
| 10 in | 25.40 cm |
| 20 in | 50.80 cm |
| 30 in | 76.20 cm |
| 40 in | 101.60 cm |
| 50 in | 127.00 cm |
| 60 in | 152.40 cm |
| 70 in | 177.80 cm |
| 100 in | 254.00 cm |
Fun Facts
- The word inch comes from the Latin word uncia, meaning “one-twelfth” (since 1 inch = 1/12 of a foot).
- The average height of an adult man (around 5 ft 9 in) equals about 175 cm.
- Computer and TV screen sizes are almost always measured in inches, even in metric countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many centimeters are in one inch?
Exactly 2.54 cm.
2. How do I quickly estimate inches in centimeters?
Multiply by 2.5 for a quick rough estimate.
3. Are inches still used in the UK?
Yes, especially for height, clothing, and display sizes, but centimeters are also common.
4. Is the inch part of the metric system?
No, it belongs to the imperial system.
5. Why 2.54 cm exactly?
This value was internationally agreed upon in 1959 to standardize measurement systems worldwide.
