What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
longitude
Example
The longitude of New York City is approximately 74 degrees west. [longitude: noun]
Example
We need to calculate the longitude of this location to plot it accurately on the map. [longitude: verb]
meridian
Example
The 90th meridian passes through the western part of the United States. [meridian: noun]
Example
We need to determine the meridian of this location to accurately plot it on the map. [meridian: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Longitude is more commonly used than meridian in everyday language, as it is more relevant to navigation and timekeeping.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between longitude and meridian?
Both longitude and meridian are formal terms used in technical and scientific contexts, such as geography, cartography, and astronomy.
