latitude

/ˌlædəˈtud/

/ˈlætɪtud/

Other forms: latitudes

Use the word latitude to describe how much freedom you have in making choices. For example, if a teacher gives you latitude in writing your paper, you might get to choose the topic and how many sources to include.

Latitude is related to the Latin word latitudo, meaning "breadth, width, extent, size." You might already know that latitude is used to indicate the distance an object is from the equator, measured from north to south. Latitude can also be used to mean "be given the space to act and decide for oneself," like the latitude parents might give responsible kids.

Definitions of latitude

1. noun

   an imaginary line around the Earth parallel to the equator
   synonyms: line of latitude, parallel, parallel of latitude

   types:

   polar circle

   a line of latitude at the north or south poles

   horse latitude

   either of two belts or regions near 30 degrees north or 30 degrees south; characterized by calms and light-baffling winds

   tropic

   either of two parallels of latitude about 23.5 degrees to the north and south of the equator representing the points farthest north and south at which the sun can shine directly overhead and constituting the boundaries of the Torrid Zone or tropics

   type of:

   line

   a spatial location defined by a real or imaginary unidimensional extent
2. noun

   the angular distance between an imaginary line around a heavenly body parallel to its equator and the equator itself
   type of:

   angular distance

   the angular separation between two objects as perceived by an observer
3. noun

   freedom from normal restraints in conduct
   “allowed his children considerable latitude in how they spent their money”

   type of:

   liberty

   freedom of choice
4. noun

   scope for freedom of e.g. action or thought; freedom from restriction
   type of:

   ambit, compass, orbit, range, reach, scope

   an area in which something acts or operates or has power or control: "the range of a supersonic jet"