This document defines key terms related to cost accounting: - A cost object is an activity, item, or operation for which costs are measured, such as operating a personnel department. - Cost is the expenditure incurred for a specific cost object, calculated as quantity used multiplied by the unit cost. - A cost unit is the quantitative unit used to measure costs, like cost per table or cost per meter of cloth. - A cost center is an organizational location or function for which costs are tracked, like building maintenance or storekeeper wages. - A profit center is a location or function responsible for revenues and expenses, like a product division. - Costs are classified as direct, which can be traced to