Convert Span to Ell

Convert spans to ells by entering a value below.

1 span (spans) = 0.2 ell (ells)

How to Convert Spans to Ells

The span and ell are both units of length. By definition, 1 ell equals exactly 5 spans. This means to convert spans to ells, you divide by 5.

Formula

ells = spans ÷ 5

Step-by-Step Example

Convert 5 span to ells:

1
Convert 5 span to ells

We need to convert spans to ells

2
Apply the formula

Since 1 ell = 5 span, divide by 5

5 ÷ 5 = 1

Answer

5 span = 1 ell

Span to Ell Conversion Table

Quick reference table for common span to ell conversions. Click any value for detailed calculation.

Spans (span) Ells (ell)
1 span 0.2 ell
2 span 0.4 ell
5 span 1 ell
10 span 2 ell
15 span 3 ell
20 span 4 ell
25 span 5 ell
50 span 10 ell
100 span 20 ell

About These Units

Span (span)

A span is a historical unit approximately 9 inches or 22.86 centimeters, based on the distance from thumb tip to pinky tip with fingers spread. Two spans equal one cubit. Used in ancient measurements and biblical references.

Ell (ell)

An ell is a historical unit approximately 45 inches or 1.143 meters, used for measuring cloth. Ell lengths varied significantly: English ell (45"), Scottish ell (37"), Flemish ell (27"). The word comes from Latin "ulna" meaning forearm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I convert spans to ells?

To convert spans to ells, divide the value by 5. For example, 10 span = 2 ell.

How many ells are in 1 span?

1 span equals 0.2 ells.

What is the formula for spans to ells?

The formula is: ell = span ÷ 5.