(sciences) A system of units formerly used in physics (now replaced by the SI system), in which the basic units of length, mass and time were respectively centimeter, gram, and second.

(law, chiefly US, Canada) The criminal offence of murder in a form defined as less serious than first-degree murder; the precise distinction may vary by jurisdiction but typically involves second-degree murder being intentional but not premeditated.

plural of second-degree burn

(engineering) A measure of a body's resistance to bending; second moment of area.

(engineering) A measure of a body's resistance to bending.

(informal) The belief that food dropped on the ground may safely be eaten provided it is picked up within five seconds of touching the ground.

(slang, US) A thief, especially one who climbs into buildings above ground level.

plural of second-level domain

(transport, idiomatic) A rule of thumb for safe driving by which a driver must maintain a two-second distance from the vehicle in front.

plural of error of the second kind