Latitude

/ˈlæ.tɪ.tjuːd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The angular distance of a place north or south of the Earth's equator, usually stated in degrees.

The latitude of Paris is approximately 48.8566° N.

A region of the Earth defined by its latitude.

The tropical latitude is known for its warm climate.

Freedom from narrow restrictions or limitations; the ability to act according to one’s own will.

The students were given a latitude in choosing their own research topics.

The extent or amount of freedom or flexibility available in a given situation.

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.

More freedom or leeway in decision-making or actions.

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