Definition of fathom
- n. - 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.
- n. - The measure or extant of one's capacity; depth, as of
intellect; profundity; reach; penetration.
- v. t. - To encompass with the arms extended or encircling; to
measure by throwing the arms about; to span.
- v. t. - The measure by a sounding line; especially, to sound the
depth of; to penetrate, measure, and comprehend; to get to the bottom
of.