spithame

SPI´THAME(σπιθαμή), a span, a Greek measure equal to 3-4ths of the foot. There was no proper Roman measure corresponding to it, but the later writers used palmus in this sense; the early writers express the Greek span properly by dodrans. [MENSURAp. 161 b; PALMUS]

(σπιθαμή). A span; in Greek measurement, three quarters of a foot.