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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:

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  1 ell ≈ 45 inches (1.143 meters)

  
  
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  Used mainly for measuring cloth and textiles

  
  
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  Length varied by region and country

  
  

The ell is now largely of historical interest but reflects the origins of many modern measurement systems.

Pica

A pica is a unit of length commonly used in typography and printing to measure font sizes, line lengths, and spacing. It is equal to 1/6 of an inch, or exactly 12 points in the point system.

Key facts:

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  1 pica = 1/6 inch ≈ 4.233 millimeters

  
  
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  1 pica = 12 points

  
  
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  Used primarily in graphic design, printing, and typesetting

  
  
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  Helps standardize the measurement of fonts, columns, and layouts

  
  

The pica remains a fundamental unit in desktop publishing and print design, helping maintain consistency in text and page formatting.