fathom
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈfæð.əm/
KK: /ˈfæθəm/
noun
Definition
A unit of measurement that is equal to six feet, mainly used to measure how deep water is.
Example
The diver explored the ocean at a depth of twenty fathoms.
Conversation
Did you know that a fathom is actually six feet deep?
Really? I thought it was just a random term for depth.
Yeah, it’s mainly used in boating and fishing.
That makes sense! I need to remember that for future reference.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
depth
measure
extent
Antonyms
height
surface
top
transitive verb
Definition
To understand something deeply or to measure the depth of water.
Example
It took her a while to fathom the complexities of the situation.
Tense Forms
Past: fathomed
Past Participle: fathomed
Conversation
I just can't fathom why he would do something like that.
Right? It really doesn't make any sense to me either.
I mean, I thought I knew him well enough to fathom his motives.
Root Explanation
Fathom → This word originates from Old English 'fæðm', meaning to embrace or encircle. The term originally referred to the act of measuring the depth of water by using one's arms to embrace or encircle the distance.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word for 'embrace' — that's how fathom relates to measuring depth, as it originally meant to encircle or measure with your arms.
Visually Confused Words
atom
ahom