Span (Cloth)
A span is an old unit of length based on the distance between the tip of the thumb and the tip of the little finger of a fully extended hand. Traditionally, it measures about 9 inches or 22.86 centimeters.
In the context of cloth and textiles, the span was used as a convenient, informal measure to estimate small lengths of fabric before standardized rulers became widespread. It was helpful for tailors and traders to quickly gauge lengths during measuring and cutting.
While the span is largely obsolete as a formal unit today, it reflects historical measurement practices tied closely to the human body, similar to the cubit or hand.
Summary:
1 span ≈ 9 inches (22.86 cm)
Based on the hand’s spread
Used historically in cloth measurement and tailoring
Now mostly of historical and cultural interest
the Reed as a Unit of Measurement
The reed is an ancient unit of length that has historical significance in various cultures, especially in Mesopotamia and Egypt. Typically, one reed is equal to 3 cubits, which translates to approximately 1.5 meters or 5 feet in modern measurements. The reed was often used in surveying land, measuring building materials, or determining distances in early architectural and agricultural planning. In ancient Babylon, the reed was part of a well-organized system of measurements that helped support large-scale construction and irrigation projects. Similarly, in Biblical texts, the reed is mentioned as a standard tool for measuring sacred structures like temples. Despite its historical importance, the reed has fallen out of use in the modern metric and imperial systems. However, it remains a fascinating example of how early civilizations developed practical ways to standardize measurement for daily and ceremonial life. Understanding such units gives us insight into the technological and social sophistication of ancient societies. Although obsolete today, the reed is a reminder of humanity’s long-standing pursuit of order and precision in the physical world.
No conversions available for length.