Langimage
English

cubit

|cu/bit|

C2

/ˈkjuːbɪt/

ancient length unit

Etymology
Etymology Information

'cubit' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'cubitum,' where 'cubitum' meant 'elbow.'

Historical Evolution

'cubitum' transformed into the Old French word 'cubit,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cubit' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'elbow,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a unit of length.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an ancient unit of length, approximately equal to the length of a forearm, used in many cultures.

The ancient Egyptians used the cubit to measure the length of their structures.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/10 12:17