line

1

In the United States, 19th – 20th centuries (United Nations 1966), a unit of length, = 0.025 inches (40 lines = 1 inch). Now used only for the diameters of buttons, formerly also used for the diameters of watchglasses.

Tariff Act of 1922, 42 Stat., ch. 356, paragraph 1410:

“Provided, That the term ‘line’ as used in this paragraph shall mean the line button measure of one-fortieth of one inch.”

2

In Great Britain, 17th—20th century, a unit of length, approximately 0.0833… inches (12 lines = 1 inch).

Alexander (1850), usually a trustworthy source, characterizes the above definition as the “artificer's” line in England, and defines the ordinary line as 0.1 inch.

3

A synonym for the maxwell.

4

In Paraguay, a unit of land area, 7,500 square meters (about 1.85 acres). Also called a liño.