latitude Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun the angular distance between an imaginary line around a heavenly body parallel to its equator and the equator itself
noun freedom from normal restraints in conduct
- the new freedom in movies and novels
- allowed his children considerable latitude in how they spent their money
noun an imaginary line around the Earth parallel to the equator
parallel of latitude; line of latitude; parallel.
noun scope for freedom of e.g. action or thought; freedom from restriction

F. latitude, L. latitudo, fr. latus broad, wide, for older stlatus; perh. akin to E. strew.

Extent from side to side, or distance sidewise from a given point or line; breadth; width.
Provided the length do not exceed the latitude above one third part. Sir H. Wotton.
Room; space; freedom from confinement or restraint; hence, looseness; laxity; independence.
In human actions there are no degrees and precise natural limits described, but a latitude is indulged. Jer. Taylor.
Extent or breadth of signification, application, etc.; extent of deviation from a standard, as truth, style, etc.
No discreet man will believe Augustine's miracles, in the latitude of monkish relations. Fuller.
Extent; size; amplitude; scope.
I pretend not to treat of them in their full latitude. Locke.
(Geog.) Distance north or south of the equator, measured on a meridian.
(Astron.) The angular distance of a heavenly body from the ecliptic.