English units of measurement
English units preceded Imperial and US customary systems.
Various standards have applied to English units at different times, in different places, and for different applications.
- field
- Metrology
- nationality
- English
- known_for
- Predecessor to Imperial and US customary units
Lore & Background
Very little is known of the units of measurement used in the British Isles prior to Roman colonisation in the 1st century AD. During the Roman period, Roman Britain relied on Ancient Roman units of measurement. During the Anglo-Saxon period, the North German foot of 13.2 inches was the nominal basis for other units of linear measurement. The foot was divided into 4 palms or 12 thumbs. A cubit was 2 feet, an elne 4 feet. The rod was 15 Anglo-Saxon feet, the furlong 10 rods. An acre was 4 rods × 40 rods, i.e.
Reader's Guide
The legacy of English units persists in modern customary measurements in the United States and in historical references to pre-Imperial British measures.
Did You Know?
- The term 'English units' can be ambiguous, sometimes referring to Imperial or US customary units.
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