The "six" in the expression comes from the six feet that make up a fathom -- which is a little less than two meters.

VOA: special.2011.03.06

thirty-six feet per second up. Very smooth, very quiet ride."

VOA: special.2009.07.15

the final six feet at the bottom of the ocean.

VOA: special.2009.05.24

Six feet deep and three feet wide.

VOA: special.2010.03.25

(OMITTED) "The Back-Up Plan" marks the feature film directing debut of Alan Poul, an award-winning television producer and director on shows including "Six Feet Under."

VOA: standard.2010.04.30

Twenty feet -- that's six meters. Other suggestions include putting more distance between you and the device and using good lighting.

VOA: special.2011.08.01

Robin Rivello says a burro's feet should be cleaned and cared for every six to eight weeks.

VOA: special.2010.02.16