What is a linear yard?

Answer 1

A yard is a measure of length. Length has only one dimension.

Another answer with more information

Whilst "Linear" may appear to be an unnecessary adjective to indicate you are measuring a one-dimensional line and not a two-dimensional area (square yards) or three-dimensional volume (cubic yards), phrases such as "linear yard", "linear foot", "linear meter", etc. are in common use in countries where English is spoken as the native language.

The reason for this is that, when used in this way, the phrase "linear yard" has a very specific meaning.

For example, vinyl for flooring, etc. is often sold off rolls that are 61" wide, so when they sell you a linear yard, you get a 36" x 61" piece. Another example: if a certain fabric has a width of 48" and it is sold by the LY, when you buy 2 linear yards, you get a 72" x 48" piece.