Ell
An ell is a historical unit of length that was commonly used in medieval Europe, especially for measuring textiles and cloth. Its length varied by region but was typically about 45 inches (approximately 1.143 meters).
The ell originated from the length of the arm or forearm and was often used by tailors and merchants to measure fabric. Different countries had their own versions—for example, the English ell was about 45 inches, while the Scottish ell was longer, around 37 inches.
Although obsolete today, the ell played an important role in trade and clothing production before standardized measurements became widespread.
Summary:
1 ell ≈ 45 inches (1.143 meters)
Used mainly for measuring cloth and textiles
Length varied by region and country
The ell is now largely of historical interest but reflects the origins of many modern measurement systems.
Hand
A hand is a traditional unit of length primarily used to measure the height of horses. It is equal to 4 inches or 10.16 centimeters.
The origin of the hand as a measurement comes from using the width of a human hand, and it has been standardized at 4 inches for consistency in horse measurement. Horse height is expressed in "hands," measured from the ground to the highest point of the withers (the ridge between the shoulder blades).
Key points:
1 hand = 4 inches
1 hand = 10.16 centimeters
Used mainly for measuring horse height
Horse height is often given in hands and inches, e.g., 15.2 hands means 15 hands plus 2 inches
The hand remains the standard unit for horse height in many English-speaking countries.
No conversions available for length.