datum

The definition of a datum is a fact used to make a conclusion or a point of reference in geography or geology.

(noun)

An example of a datum is a new scientific discovery used to reach a conclusion about the common cold.
An example of a datum is the assumed altitude of a specific piece of land used as the basis in calculating the altitude of the top of a mountain on the land.

See datum in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. data or datums

something known or assumed; information from which conclusions can be inferred
a real or assumed thing, used as a basis for calculations or measurements, as a level (also ) from which elevations and depths are measured in surveying

Origin: L, what is given, neut. of datus: see date

See datum in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

pl. da·ta (-tə) A fact or proposition used to draw a conclusion or make a decision. See Usage Note at data.
pl. da·tums A point, line, or surface used as a reference, as in surveying, mapping, or geology.

Origin:

Origin: Latin, something given

Origin: , from

Origin: neuter past participle of dare, to give; see dō- in Indo-European roots

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