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fathom

The correct spelling is fathom.

How to pronounce fathom

/ˈfæðəm/
noun

IPA: /ˈfæðəm/

Say it like: Fat-hom

The correct spelling is fathom. Grasp, envelopment, control. For example: "I can't for the life of me fathom what this means."

Usage Examples

I can't for the life of me fathom what this means.

Meanings

noun

  1. 1.Grasp, envelopment, control.
  2. 2.(now usually nautical) An English unit of length for water depth notionally based upon the width of grown man's outstretched arms but standardized as 6 feet (about 1.8 m).
  3. 3.Various similar units in other systems.
  4. 4.Depth of insight, mental reach or scope.

verb

  1. 1.To encircle with outstretched arms, especially to take a measurement; to embrace.
  2. 2.To measure the depth of, take a sounding of.
  3. 3.To get to the bottom of; to manage to comprehend; understand (a problem etc.).

Similar words

Words related in meaning — check their spelling too.

View synonyms & usage examples