Collins English-English Dictionary

latitude ['lætɪ"tjuːd]

1. 1. n

2. 2. n an angular distance in degrees north or south of the equator (latitude 0°), equal to the angle subtended at the centre of the globe by the meridian between the equator and the point in question

3. 3. n [often plural] a region considered with regard to its distance from the equator - See longitude

4. 4. n scope for freedom of action, thought, etc; freedom from restriction

   his parents gave him a great deal of latitude

5. 5. n [photog] the range of exposure over which a photographic emulsion gives an acceptable negative

6. 6. n See celestial latitude

7. 7. n [Etymology] C14: from Latin latitudo, from latus broad