metered

Metered is an adjective describing something that is measured by a meter or charged according to measured usage. It derives from the device used to quantify quantities, and is used across diverse domains to indicate a system that records and applies values based on actual activity.

In utilities, metering is standard for electricity, natural gas, water, and heating services. Meters record consumption, and customers are billed accordingly. Modern metering often uses smart meters that provide real-time data, support dynamic pricing, and help manage demand, efficiency, and reliability. Metering can also assist in leak detection and load management.

In transportation and urban policy, metered systems regulate access and fees. Metered parking uses parking meters or digital equivalents to charge for time, with rates and limits set by authorities to optimize space use and manage congestion.

In telecommunications and data services, metered pricing charges based on usage, such as call duration, data volume, or bandwidth. This contrasts with flat-rate or unlimited plans and reflects utilization or cost of service.

In other contexts, metered can describe poetry or music that follows a regular metrical pattern, producing a measured rhythm. It also appears in medicine to describe devices that deliver a fixed dose per use, such as metered-dose inhalers.

See also metering, meter, unmetered.