length

length

noun \ˈleŋ(k)th, ˈlen(t)th\

plural lengths \ˈleŋ(k)ths, ˈlen(t)ths, ˈleŋ(k)s\

Definition of LENGTH

1

a : the longer or longest dimension of an object

b : a measured distance or dimension <10 feet in length> — see metric system table, weight table

c : the quality or state of being long

2

a : duration or extent in time

b : relative duration or stress of a sound

3

a : distance or extent in space

b : the length of something taken as a unit of measure <his horse led by a length>

4

: the degree to which something (as a course of action or a line of thought) is carried —often used in plural <went to great lengths to learn the truth>

5

a : a long expanse or stretch

b : a piece constituting or usable as part of a whole or of a connected series : section <a length of pipe>

6

: the longer or vertical dimension of a piece of clothing —often used in combination <elbow-length sleeves>

— at length

1

: fully, comprehensively

2

: at last : finally

Examples of LENGTH

1. The length of the table is six feet, and its width is three feet.
2. These pins are available in one- and two-inch lengths.
3. The adult animals reach a maximum length of two meters.
4. Your essay should be no more than 250 words in length.
5. the length of a movie
6. They were two car lengths behind us.

Origin of LENGTH

Middle English lengthe, from Old English lengthu, from lang long

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to LENGTH

Synonyms

breadth, distance, expansion, extent, field, expanse, plain, reach, sheet, spread, stretch, waste

Related Words

domain, sphere, territory; compass, range, scope, sweep; gamut, scale, spectrum; depth, emptiness, void; extension, latitude, span; amplitude, immensity, magnitude

Other Weights and Measures Terms

avoirdupois weight, calorie, denier, kip, pace, twain