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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


Rod


A rod is a traditional unit of length used in land measurement and surveying. It is equal to 16.5 feet, 5.5 yards, or exactly 5.0292 meters.


Also known as a pole or perch, the rod dates back to medieval England and was commonly used for measuring land and agricultural plots. It is closely related to other units such as the chain (which is 4 rods) and the furlong (which is 40 rods).


Key conversions:



  • 1 rod = 16.5 feet



  • 1 rod = 5.5 yards



  • 1 rod = 5.0292 meters



  • 4 rods = 1 chain



  • 40 rods = 1 furlong



Though largely replaced by metric units today, the rod is still occasionally used in surveying and legal descriptions of land, especially in the United States and the UK.




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