Altitude Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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altitude
[ˈæltɪtjuːd ]
Definitions
in aviation
The height above the ground or sea level at which an aircraft is flying.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| altitude |
Typically used when talking about the height of an object or location in relation to sea level or ground level, often in the context of aviation or geography.
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| height |
Used to describe the measurement from base to top or head to foot of an object, person, or structure. It's the most general term and can be applied in many daily life contexts.
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| elevation |
Commonly used in scientific and geographical contexts to describe the height of a point on the Earth's surface, normally in relation to sea level.
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| level |
Used to describe a specific horizontal position or stage, particularly in gaming, measurements of liquid, or stages of a process.
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Examples of usage
- The pilot adjusted the altitude to avoid turbulence.
- The plane reached a cruising altitude of 35,000 feet.
in geography
The vertical distance of a point or object above a reference point, such as sea level or the earth's surface.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| altitude |
Used when talking about the height of something above sea level, especially in aviation and geography.
|
| height |
A general term that can refer to how tall someone or something is. It can be used for people, buildings, trees, etc.
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| elevation |
Often used in geographical contexts to describe the height of a specific location above sea level.
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| level |
This term can refer to different degrees, amounts, or stages of something, such as water or skill. It is often used in broader contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The city is located at an altitude of 500 meters above sea level.
- The mountain climber experienced altitude sickness at high elevations.
general
A high place or region.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| altitude |
Used when referring to the height of objects in relation to sea level, often in aviation and mountain climbing.
|
| height |
A general term used to describe the measurement from base to top in everyday situations, applicable to people, objects, and buildings.
|
| elevation |
Commonly used in geography and construction to refer to the height of a point on the Earth's surface or a building structure.
|
| level |
Refers to a flat horizontal plane or a specific stage/position in a hierarchy or system. Not typically used to describe vertical height.
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Examples of usage
- The mountain village was situated at a serene altitude.
- The hotel offers breathtaking views from its altitude.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Air pressure decreases as altitude increases, which can affect breathing and weather conditions.
- Most airplanes fly at altitudes between 30,000 and 40,000 feet to avoid turbulence and increase fuel efficiency.
- Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth, stands at an altitude of 29,029 feet (8,848 meters).
Geography
- Different altitudes can create varied climates; for example, it can be snowy at high altitudes, but warm and sunny at lower ones.
- The concept of altitude helps in navigation, guiding climbers through mountain ranges like the Andes or Himalayas.
- High-altitude regions can experience unique ecosystems, such as plants and animals specially adapted to survive in extreme conditions.
Health & Safety
- High altitudes can cause altitude sickness, which affects some people with symptoms like headaches and nausea.
- Acclimatization is important for those climbing mountains, as it helps the body adjust to reduced oxygen levels.
- Athletes sometimes train at high altitudes to improve their performance by increasing their stamina and oxygen efficiency.
Pop Culture
- Many films depict adventures in high altitudes, emphasizing the thrilling challenges of mountain climbing.
- The song 'Altitude' by the band St. Lucia captures the feeling of being at a great height through its lyrics and rhythm.
- Video games often feature levels set in high-altitude environments, adding to the excitement with challenging gameplay.
Origin of 'altitude'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'altitudo', which means height.
- It entered the English language in the 14th century, originally used to describe physical heights.
- Altitude relates closely to other words like 'alto', used in music to describe high pitches.
The word 'altitude' originated from the Latin word 'altitudo', derived from 'altus' meaning 'high'. It has been used in various contexts to refer to the height above a specific point, whether in aviation, geography, or general elevation. Altitude plays a crucial role in aviation for safe flying and navigation, while in geography, it defines the vertical distance of a location. The concept of altitude has been significant in human history, especially in exploration and understanding of the Earth's topography.