Convert Nautical Mile (UK) (NM (UK)) to Reed (reed) instantly.
About these units
Nautical Mile (UK) (NM (UK))
The UK nautical mile was historically defined as 6,080 feet, slightly longer than the international nautical mile (1,852 meters). Before international standardization in 1929, British charts and maritime documents relied on this definition. It approximated one minute of latitude but used British feet rather than an exact metric conversion. Although the UK adopted the international nautical mile long ago, many older navigation charts, historical records, and maritime traditions still reference the UK version. Researchers dealing with archival naval documents must carefully distinguish between the two definitions to avoid errors in distance or speed calculations. The UK nautical mile is a reminder of the era before global standardization when each nation maintained its own measurement conventions—even for activities as universally critical as seafaring.
Reed (reed)
The reed is a smaller unit than the long reed, typically about 1 cubit, and was widely used in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and biblical times. It functioned as a standard measure for construction, religious architecture, and land surveys. Reeds were particularly useful in field work, where repetitive human-scale measurements could be performed quickly. They also served as a practical calibration tool for larger units like rods, chains, and long reeds. The reed is frequently mentioned in ancient texts, highlighting its role in the organization of public works, the construction of sacred buildings, and the measurement of land.