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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


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:



  • 1 pica = 1/6 inch ≈ 4.233 millimeters



  • 1 pica = 12 points



  • Used primarily in graphic design, printing, and typesetting



  • 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.




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