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

And the borders of them were of one handbreadth, turned inwards round about: and upon the tables was the flesh of the offering.

From Project Gutenberg

But the great arrow had pierced right through her shoulder, and stood out a handbreadth upon the other side.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, a handbreadth above the angle, he made a round hole with the sipke of the tomahawk, and called for a revolver.

From Project Gutenberg

Some who carried war-clubs rushed forward and struck the post within a handbreadth of his head.

From Project Gutenberg

Behold, my days are as a handbreadth before Thee, and my life as nothing in Thy sight.

From Project Gutenberg