緯度
いど · ido · JLPT N2 · noun
latitude
🌐🧭 緯度 = weft thread + degree: lines running sideways around the globe
緯 means the weft, the threads woven sideways across a loom. Latitude lines also run sideways around the Earth. Its partner 経度 (keido, longitude) uses 経, the warp threads that run lengthwise.
度 — 广 (shelter) + 庶 abbreviated (phonetic)
Originally depicted a hand measuring length under a shelter, meaning 'to measure' or 'a measure/standard.' From this came extended senses like 'degree,' 'extent,' and 'to pass through' (as in passing time). The reading 'dù' means degree/measure, while 'duó' preserves the older verbal sense of measuring.