AL'TITUDE, n. [L. altitudo, of altus, high, and a common termination, denoting state, condition or manner.] 1. Space extended upward; height; the elevation of an object above its foundation; as, the altitude of a mountain, or column; or the elevation of an object or place above the surface on which we stand, or above the earth; as, the altitude of a cloud or a meteor; or the elevation of one object above another; as, of a bird above the top of a a tree.2. The elevation of a point, a star, or other object above the horizon. This is true or apparent altitude; true, when taken from the rational or real horizon; apparent, when taken from the sensible, or apparent horizon.3. Figuratively, high degree; superior excellence; highest point of excellence.He is proud to the altitude of his virtue.The altitude of the eye, in perspective, is a right line let fall from the eye, perpendicular to the geometrical plane.Meridian altitude is an arch of the meridian between the horizon and any star or point on the meridian.
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