Ell: meaning, definitions and examples

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ell

 

[ ɛl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

measure of length

An ell is a unit of measurement that was historically used to denote a length equal to the distance from the elbow to the tip of the fingers, typically around 45 inches (114 cm) in length. It was commonly used in various trades and measurements, especially in textiles. The ell is no longer widely used in modern measurement systems, having been largely replaced by the yard and meter in everyday practice. However, it may still be referenced in legal documents and historical texts concerning land measurements and trade.

Synonyms

extent, length, measure

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter used an ell to measure the beams.
  • In the past, fabrics were sold by the ell.
  • Some antique documents mention dimensions in ells.

Translations

Translations of the word "ell" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ainda

🇮🇳 और

🇩🇪 noch

🇮🇩 masih

🇺🇦 ще

🇵🇱 jeszcze

🇯🇵 まだ

🇫🇷 encore

🇪🇸 todavía

🇹🇷 hala

🇰🇷 아직

🇸🇦 لا يزال

🇨🇿 ještě

🇸🇰 ešte

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 še

🇮🇸 enn

🇰🇿 әлі

🇬🇪 ახლა

🇦🇿 hələ

🇲🇽 todavía

Etymology

The term 'ell' originates from the Middle English word 'elle', which means 'forearm' and is derived from the Old English word 'ælle'. It has its roots further back in Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European languages, where similar concepts of measurement related to body parts can be observed. The ell was prominently used during the medieval period and continued to find application in various trades. In the context of textile manufacturing, it gained significance during the rise of commerce, especially in the 14th to 17th centuries. Different regions had variations in the exact measurement of an ell, often leading to inconsistencies and local standards. Over time, the adoption of standardized measurements like yards and meters led to the decline of the ell, but its historical importance remains notable in understanding trade practices of the past.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,821, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.