latitude

lat·i·tude

noun \ˈla-tə-ˌtüd, -ˌtyüd\

Definition of LATITUDE

1

archaic : extent or distance from side to side : width

2

: angular distance from some specified circle or plane of reference: as a : angular distance north or south from the earth's equator measured through 90 degrees b : angular distance of a celestial body from the ecliptic c : a region or locality as marked by its latitude

3

a : scope, range b : the range of exposures within which a film or plate will produce a negative or positive of satisfactory quality

4

: freedom of action or choice <students are allowed considerable latitude in choosing courses>

— lat·i·tu·di·nal \ˌla-tə-ˈtüd-nəl, -ˈtyüd-; -ˈtü-də-nəl, -ˈtyü-\ adjective

— lat·i·tu·di·nal·ly adverb

Examples of LATITUDE

1. a map of the world showing lines of latitude and longitude
2. located at a latitude of 40 degrees north
3. Madrid and New York City are on nearly the same latitude.
4. islands located at different latitudes
5. We weren't given much latitude in deciding how to do the job.
6. The judge has wide latitude to reject evidence for the trial.

Illustration of LATITUDE

Origin of LATITUDE

Middle English, from Latin latitudin-, latitudo, from latus wide; akin to Old Church Slavic postĭlati to spread

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to LATITUDE

Synonyms: slack, leeway, space, wiggle room

Related Words: license (or licence), rein, swing

see all synonyms and antonyms

[+]more[-]hide

Other Cartography Terms

Robinson projection, benchmark, plat, projection, topography