GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Fathom , n. [OE. fadme, faðme, AS. fæðm fathom, the embracing arms; akin to OS. faðmos the outstretched arms, D. vadem, vaam, fathom, OHG. fadom, fadum, G. faden fathom, thread, Icel. faðmr fathom, Sw. famn, Dan. favn; cf. Gr.  to spread out,  outspread, flat, L. patere to lie open, extend. Cf. Patent, Petal.]
   A measure of length, containing six feet; the space to which a man can extend his arms; -- used chiefly in measuring cables, cordage, and the depth of navigable water by soundings.
   1913 Webster
   The measure or extant of one's capacity; depth, as of intellect; profundity; reach; penetration. [R.]
   1913 Webster
   Another of his fathom they have none
   To lead their business.
   Shak.
   
   1913 Webster
   
         
       

2.       
   Fathom, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Fathomed ; p. pr. & vb. n. Fathoming.]
   To encompass with the arms extended or encircling; to measure by throwing the arms about; to span. [Obs.]
   Purchas.
   
   1913 Webster
   To measure by a sounding line; especially, to sound the depth of; to penetrate, measure, and comprehend; to get to the bottom of.
   Dryden.
   
   1913 Webster
   The page of life that was spread out before me seemed dull and commonplace, only because I had not fathomed its deeper import.
   Hawthotne.
   
   1913 Webster