Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ellen

noun
/ˈɛlən/
Definition
A unit of measurement based on the length of a person’s arm.
Examples
  • The tailor used an ellen to cut the perfect length of cloth for the dress.
  • The ancient manuscripts detail various measurements, including the ellen, for trade.
Meaning
Ellen is a historical measure that is now largely obsolete, used to specify length, often in terms of fabric or cloth.
Synonyms
  • ell (a variant spelling of the same measurement)