WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Fath"om, n. [fadme, faedhme, AS. f?edhm fathom, the embracing arms; akin to OS. faedhmos the outstretched arms, D. vadem, vaam, fathom, OHG. fadom, fadum, G. faden fathom, thread, Icel. faedhmr fathom, Sw. famn, Dan. favn; cf. Gr. patere to lie open, exte
Part of Speech : Petal.]
Definition : 1. A measure of length, containing six feet; the space to which a man can extend his arms; -- used chiefly in measuring cables, cordage, and the depth of navigable water by soundings.

2. The measure or extant of one's capacity; depth, as of intellect; profundity; reach; penetration. [R.] Another of his fathom they have none To lead their business. Shak.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913

Pronunciation : Fath"om
Part of Speech : v.
Definition : 1. To encompass with the arms extended or encircling; to measure by throwing the arms about; to span. [Obs.] Purchas.

2. The measure by a sounding line; especially, to sound the depth of; to penetrate, measure, and comprehend; to get to the bottom of. Dryden. The page of life that was spread out before me seemed dull and commonplace, only because I had not fathomed its deeper import. Hawthotne.

t. [imp. & p. p. Fathomed; p. pr. & vb. n. Fathoming.]
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913