What is one fathom equals?

One fathom is a unit of measurement typically used in nautical contexts to measure the depth of water or the length of a line or cable. It is equal to six feet or 1.8288 meters. The term "fathom" comes from the Old English word "faethm," which means "outstretched arms." In the past, sailors would measure the depth of water by using a rope with knots tied at intervals of fathoms. By dropping the rope overboard, they could estimate the depth of the water by counting the number of knots that were underwater. Today, fathoms are still used in nautical and maritime industries, as well as in some scientific research and exploration activities.