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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


Long Reed


The long reed is an old English unit of length used primarily in measuring land, especially in agriculture and surveying. It is traditionally equal to 16.5 feet or 5.03 meters.


The long reed was used alongside other units like the rod, pole, and perch, often interchangeably, to measure distances and plot boundaries.


Key points:



  • 1 long reed = 16.5 feet ≈ 5.03 meters



  • Used historically in land measurement and agriculture



  • Equivalent or similar to the rod, pole, or perch



  • Important in English customary measurement systems



Though obsolete now, the long reed is part of the rich history of traditional English measurement units.




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