width
UK: wɪdθ | US: wɪdθ
n. the measurement or extent of something from side to side
n. (figurative) the range or variety of something
The word "width" derives from the Old English "wīd" (meaning "wide") combined with the noun-forming suffix "-þu" (modern "-th"), which denotes a state or quality. Over time, "wīdþu" evolved into "width," preserving the core idea of "the state of being wide." This suffix is common in Old English abstract nouns (e.g., "strength," "length"). The logic is straightforward: "wide" (adjective) + "-th" → "width" (noun), mirroring similar constructions like "breadth" from "broad."
The width of the river made it difficult to cross.
Measure the width of the table before buying a tablecloth.
The project impressed us with its width of scope.
The hallway’s narrow width felt claustrophobic.
Adjust the image width to fit the screen.