Fathom
Fathom
Fathom (/ˈfæðəm/; from Old English faðm, meaning "a pair of outstretched arms") is a unit of length in the imperial system and the U.S. customary units. It is used especially for measuring the depth of water.
Etymology
The term fathom, which is now used almost exclusively in the context of depth measurements, derives from the Old English word faðm, which means 'the length of the outstretched arms'. This was a common way of measuring things in the past, and the term has been used in this sense since at least the ninth century.
Usage
In the International System of Units, one fathom is equivalent to 1.8288 meters. In the imperial system and U.S. customary units, it is exactly 6 feet. The use of fathom as a unit of measurement is now largely confined to the maritime industry, particularly in reference to the depth of water.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fathom
- Wikipedia's article - Fathom
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