The size "8.5 x 11 inches" refers to a standard paper dimension commonly used in the United States and Canada. This size is often referred to as letter size paper and is widely used for printing documents, letters, and forms. In metric units, 8.5 x 11 inches is approximately 21.6 x 27.9 centimeters. This size is popular in offices, schools, and homes, making it a versatile choice for various printing needs, including reports, resumes, and brochures.