Length (noun)
Definition
Length is a measurement of the extent of something from one end to the other. It is one of the basic physical dimensions and is often used to describe the size or distance of objects, spaces, or time intervals.
Etymology
The word “length” originated from the Old English word “lengþu,” which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*langithō,” meaning “longness” or “duration.” The term has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning over time, representing the dimension of extension.
Synonyms
- Distance
- Measurement
- Extent
- Span
- Dimension
- Range
Antonyms
- Shortness
- Width
- Height
Example
A unique example of length is the length of a marathon race. In the sport of running, a marathon is a long-distance race with an official length of 42.195 kilometers (26.219 miles). Marathons are held in various locations worldwide, and completing a marathon is considered a significant achievement for many runners.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How is length measured?
Length can be measured using various units, such as meters, feet, inches, centimeters, kilometers, miles, and more. The appropriate unit of measurement is chosen based on the scale of the object or distance being measured.
What is the difference between length and width?
Length and width are two different dimensions used to describe the size of an object. Length refers to the measurement from one end to the other in the longest direction, while width represents the measurement from side to side or across the widest part.
How do you convert length units?
To convert length units, you can use conversion factors. For example, to convert meters to feet, you can multiply the length in meters by approximately 3.281 to get the equivalent length in feet.
What is the significance of the term “length” in mathematics?
In mathematics, length is often used to describe the size of geometric figures, such as lines, segments, and curves. It is a fundamental concept in geometry and is used to calculate perimeters, circumferences, and other geometric properties.
How does length relate to time?
Length and time are two separate physical dimensions. Length measures the extent of space, while time measures the duration or interval between events. The relationship between length and time is explored in physics, particularly in the study of motion and spacetime.
Explore A-Z Nouns List:
| A | B | C | D |
| E | F | G | H |
| I | J | K | L |
| M | N | O | P |
| Q | R | S | T |
| U | V | W | X |
| Y | Z |