altitude
AL-tih-tood
/ˈæltɪtuːd/
The height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level.
Used in aviation to describe how high above sea level an aircraft is cruising.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'altus' (high or deep) combined with the suffix '-tudo'. It entered English in the 14th century to describe vertical distance.
Word relationships
- elevation: Elevation usually refers to fixed land features like mountains; altitude refers to objects in the air.
- depth: Depth measures distance downward below a surface.
Commonly confused with
- attitude: Altitude means physical height; attitude means mental mindset or aircraft orientation relative to the horizon.
Collocations
- cruising altitude
- high altitude
- gain altitude
- lose altitude
Example sentences
- "We have reached our cruising altitude of 35,000 feet and the flight attendants will now begin meal service." Flight announcement
- "At higher altitudes, atmospheric pressure drops, making cabin pressurization essential for passenger comfort." Aviation science
Memory hook
Altitude = How High Altus goes up. Height above sea level.
When not to use
Do not use 'altitude' to describe human height (use 'height' or 'stature').
Fun facts
- Commercial passenger jets cruise at high altitudes (30,000–40,000 ft) because thin air reduces aerodynamic drag and saves fuel.
Related words
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