Definition

1. Noun:
   • Angular distance above the horizon: In astronomy and navigation, "alt" (short for "altitude") refers to the vertical angle between a celestial object (like a star or planet) and the observer's horizon, measured in degrees.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The telescope's computer calculated the star's alt and azimuth.
  • For accurate navigation, the sailor measured the sun's alt at noon.

Advanced Usage

• "Alt" as an abbreviation: Commonly used in technical fields like astronomy, aviation, and cartography as shorthand for "altitude."
  • The pilot checked the aircraft's alt on the instrument panel.
• In computing: While a distinct meaning, it is important to note that "Alt" is also a standard abbreviation for the "Alternate" key on a computer keyboard, used in keyboard shortcuts.

Variants and Related Words

• Altitude (n): The full form of "alt," meaning height above a given level, especially sea level or ground level.
  • The airplane reached a cruising altitude of 35,000 feet.
• Elevation (n): A synonym often used interchangeably with "altitude" in geography and mapping.
  • The elevation of the mountain peak is 2,000 meters.

Synonyms

• Height: The measurement from base to top.
• Elevation: Height above a given level, especially sea level.

Related Phrases

• Alt-Az mount: Short for Altitude-Azimuth mount, a common two-axis mount for telescopes.
  • The amateur astronomer set up his telescope on an alt-az mount.

Noun

1. angular distance above the horizon (especially of a celestial object)