Convert centimeter to span (cloth) Online | Free Length Converter

Centimeter

A centimeter (cm) is a unit of length in the metric system. It is commonly used to measure small objects or short distances. One centimeter is equal to one-hundredth of a meter, meaning 100 centimeters make 1 meter. In everyday life, centimeters are used to measure height, the size of books, or dimensions of furniture. For example, a pencil might be about 15 cm long. The symbol for centimeter is "cm", and it is widely used around the world, especially in countries that follow the metric system. Rulers and measuring tapes often include centimeter markings to help with precise measurements. The centimeter is a practical and easy-to-use unit that helps in getting accurate sizes for various items.

Span (Cloth)

A span is an old unit of length based on the distance between the tip of the thumb and the tip of the little finger of a fully extended hand. Traditionally, it measures about 9 inches or 22.86 centimeters.

In the context of cloth and textiles, the span was used as a convenient, informal measure to estimate small lengths of fabric before standardized rulers became widespread. It was helpful for tailors and traders to quickly gauge lengths during measuring and cutting.

While the span is largely obsolete as a formal unit today, it reflects historical measurement practices tied closely to the human body, similar to the cubit or hand.

Summary:

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  1 span ≈ 9 inches (22.86 cm)

  
  
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  Based on the hand’s spread

  
  
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  Used historically in cloth measurement and tailoring

  
  
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  Now mostly of historical and cultural interest