handbreadth

[ hand-bredth, -bretth ]

noun

1. a unit of linear measure from 2½ to 4 inches (6.4 to 10 centimeters).

handbreadth

/ -ˌbrɛdθ; ˈhændˌbrɛtθ /

noun

1. the width of a hand used as an indication of length

Word History and Origins

Origin of handbreadth¹

First recorded in 1525–35; hand + breadth

Example Sentences

It lacks a handbreadth yet of the measure of a prince.'

From Project Gutenberg

The room is so richly decorated that scarce a handbreadth of the surface is free from ornament.

From Project Gutenberg

Suddenly the Sub came to a dead stop almost within a handbreadth of the levelled bayonet of the Turkish sentry.

From Project Gutenberg

It was like a dungeon, absolutely empty, with an uneven, earthen floor, quite dry, and high bare walls, gloomy, with a handbreadth of window high up.

From Project Gutenberg

Through teeth and skull and helmet, So fierce a thrust he sped, The good sword stood a handbreadth out Behind the Tuscan's head!

From Project Gutenberg