geographical mile
Noun: A geographical mile is a historical unit of measurement for distance, primarily used in British contexts. It is defined as a length equivalent to 6,080 feet, which is approximately 1,853.184 meters. This unit is notably 800 feet longer than the more common statute mile.
The term is used to specify this particular historical measurement, especially in contexts discussing older maps, navigation, or historical texts. * The old naval chart marked distances in geographical miles. * To convert, remember that one geographical mile equals 6,080 feet.
- Historical Context: The geographical mile is closely associated with the nautical mile, which was historically derived from one minute of latitude. While the modern international nautical mile is standardized at 1,852 meters, the geographical mile represented the British Admiralty's standard.
- Technical Distinction: It is crucial to distinguish this unit from the statute mile (5,280 feet) used in everyday road measurements, and from the modern international nautical mile.
- Nautical Mile (n): The modern international unit of distance used in maritime and aviation navigation, equal to exactly 1,852 meters. The geographical mile was its historical British predecessor.
- Admiralty Mile (n): Another name for the geographical mile, highlighting its use by the British Royal Navy.
- Sea Mile: A synonym often used interchangeably with geographical mile in historical contexts.
- Admiralty Mile: (As above).
This word has a single, specific meaning as a defined unit of length. It is an archaic term not used in modern scientific or technical work, having been superseded by the international nautical mile. Its usage today is almost exclusively historical.
-
a former British unit of length equivalent to 6,080 feet (1,853.184 meters); 800 feet longer than a statute mile
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
