Meaning & Definition of word "Latitude"

Latitude

/ˈlæ.tɪ.tjuːd/

1. The angular distance of a place north or south of the Earth's equator, usually stated in degrees.
- Example: The latitude of Paris is approximately 48.8566° N.
2. A region of the Earth defined by its latitude.
- Example: The tropical latitude is known for its warm climate.
3. Freedom from narrow restrictions or limitations; the ability to act according to one’s own will.
- Example: The students were given a latitude in choosing their own research topics.
4. The extent or amount of freedom or flexibility available in a given situation.
- Example: With a certain latitude in his budget, he decided to splurge on a new laptop.

from Latin 'latitudo' meaning 'width, breadth'.

latitude of thought:

freedom to think and act in unconventional ways.

line of latitude:

an imaginary line that shows the distance north or south of the equator.

longitude:

The angular distance of a place east or west of the meridian at Greenwich.

equator:

An imaginary line around the Earth, equidistant from the poles, dividing it into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Meaning: More freedom or leeway in decision-making or actions.

Example Sentence: The new manager is giving us some latitude in how we approach the project.