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Handbreadth


A handbreadth is a traditional unit of length based on the width of a human hand, typically measured from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the hand is fully extended. It was commonly used in ancient and medieval times for everyday measurements.



  • The handbreadth is generally about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters), though the exact length could vary by culture and era.



  • It served as a practical, easy-to-use measure in tailoring, construction, and daily life before standardized units were established.



  • The handbreadth is one of several body-based units, like the span and palm, reflecting how humans used their own bodies for measuring.



Summary:



  • About 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm)



  • Based on the width of an extended hand



  • Used historically in various cultures



  • Practical for informal, everyday measurement


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Cubit (UK)


The cubit is an ancient unit of length based on the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. In the UK, the cubit varied historically but was generally considered to be about 18 inches (approximately 45.72 centimeters).


The cubit was used in medieval England and earlier times for measuring lengths, especially in construction and tailoring. It’s one of the oldest recorded units of measurement, with origins in ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia.


Though obsolete in modern measurement systems, the cubit remains important in historical and archaeological contexts, reflecting early human methods of standardizing length based on the human body.


Summary:



  • 1 cubit (UK) β‰ˆ 18 inches (45.72 cm)



  • Based on the length of the forearm



  • Used historically in construction and trade



  • Now mostly of historical interest



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