altitude

altitude (ˈæltɪˌtjuːd)

—n
1.	the vertical height of an object above some chosen level, esp above sea level; elevation
2.	geometry the perpendicular distance from the vertex to the base of a geometrical figure or solid
3.	astronomy, nautical Compare azimuth Also called: elevation the angular distance of a celestial body from the horizon measured along the vertical circle passing through the body
4.	surveying the angle of elevation of a point above the horizontal plane of the observer
5.	(often plural) a high place or region

[C14: from Latin altitūdō, from altus high, deep]

alti'tudinal

—*adj*

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
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Etymonline

Word Origin & History

altitude

late 14c., from L. altitudo (gen. altitudinis), from altus "high" (see old).

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
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American Heritage

Science Dictionary

altitude

(āl'tĭ-t

d') Pronunciation Key

The height of an object or structure above a reference level, usually above sea level or the Earth's surface.
Astronomy The position of a celestial object above an observer's horizon, measured in degrees along a line between the horizon (0°) and the zenith (90°). Unlike declination and celestial latitude—the corresponding points in other celestial coordinate systems—the altitude of star or other celestial object is dependent on an observer's geographic location and changes steadily as the sky passes overhead due to the rotation of the Earth. See more at altazimuth coordinate system.
Mathematics The perpendicular distance from the base of a geometric figure, such as a triangle, to the opposite vertex, side, or surface.

Example sentences

In fact, this plane set a new unofficial record for the highest altitude ever

achieved by a propeller aircraft.

Other chapters focus on ailments related to altitude or excessive heat or cold.

The high-altitude conditions were not conducive to sustenance farming, but they

were ideal for growing flax.

Biodiesel can gel at cooler temperatures, such as those experienced on a

winter's day or at high altitude.

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elevation geopotential pressure altimeter pressure altitude Van Allen belt -tude

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Matching Quote

"On a level plain, simple mounds look like hills; and the insipid flatness of our present bourgeoisie is to be measured by the altitude of its "great intellects.""

-Karl Marx

altitude

al·ti·tude