What does the term "meridian" specifically refer to?

The term "meridian" specifically refers to lines of longitude that run from the North Pole to the South Pole, representing the angular distance of a point east or west of the Prime Meridian. Meridians are crucial for navigation and geographical orientation, as they help define the geographic coordinate system that allows us to pinpoint locations on the Earth’s surface. Each meridian is an imaginary line that circles the Earth vertically, intersecting with all lines of latitude, which run horizontally. This distinction is fundamental in understanding how we represent geographic positions. The significance of meridians lies in their ability to facilitate navigation and timekeeping, making them essential in both geography and map reading.