A unit of linear measurement derived from the physical construction of a Gunter's chain, which consists of 100 links totaling 66 feet. Because 100 links make a full chain and ten square chains make an acre, the unit simplifies area calculations. It appears frequently in older property descriptions and cadastral records.
Heard on the job
The old deed says the property line runs north forty degrees east for twelve chains and fifteen links.
Related terms
Chain
A traditional measuring instrument made of wire links, or the unit of length equal to 66 feet.
Chainage
The cumulative distance measured along a baseline, such as the centerline of a road or railway.
Engineer's chain
A historic distance-measuring tool exactly one hundred feet long, divided into one hundred links.