A "handbreadth" is a unit of measurement that refers to the width of a human hand. Traditionally, it is considered to be about four inches or ten centimeters across, measured from the outer edge of the thumb to the outer edge of the little finger when the hand is extended. This measurement has been used in various cultures for centuries, often in contexts like construction or tailoring. In historical texts, such as the Bible, the term "handbreadth" appears to describe dimensions of objects or spaces. For example, it is used in reference to the size of the Ark of the Covenant and other sacred items, illustrating how this simple measurement has played a role in religious and cultural practices.