Line - Definition and Overview

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The word line apparently derives from the Latin linum, meaning flax plant from which linen is produced; at one time, a stretched linen thread was the most reliable way to determine a straight line. Also see liner and lining.

The word line can refer to:

• a "straight line", in the geometric sense; see line (mathematics);
• a length of rope;
• a queue area;
• a line of written, printed, or spoken text;
• a product line, in marketing;
• an obsolete unit of measurement, equal to one-twelfth of an imperial inch;
• a circuit (or loop) in electrical engineering;
• a telephone line.