Meaning & Definition of word "Altitude"

Altitude

/ˈæl.tɪ.tjuːd/

noun:

  • 1. the height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level.
    • Example: The airplane reached an altitude of 30,000 feet.
  • 2. the angular distance of a celestial object above the horizon.
    • Example: The altitude of the sun changes throughout the day.
  • 3. a high or elevated position.
    • Example: The altitude of the mountain made the hike challenging.
  • 4. a position of high status or importance.
    • Example: She works at a corporation with a high altitude in the industry.
  • 5. the vertical distance between a level and a point above or below it.
    • Example: The altitude of the ski resort provides excellent snow conditions.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin altitudo, from altus 'high'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

high altitude:

Refers to an elevated position significantly above sea level.

altitude sickness:

A condition that can occur when a person ascends to a high elevation too quickly.

at altitude:

Describes something that is happening at a high elevation.

Related Words

elevation:

The height of a geographic location above a fixed reference point, usually sea level.

height:

The measurement of someone or something from base to top.

Slang Meanings of altitude

Meaning: High in terms of mood or state.

Example Sentence: After that concert, he was feeling altitude!

Meaning: Being in a superior or elevated position in social or business standings.

Example Sentence: She's got the altitude at the office ever since her promotion.