The phrase "date line" refers to an imaginary line that runs north to south through the Pacific Ocean. It is also known as the International Date Line. However, there are other synonyms that can be used to describe this line, including the dateline, the 180th meridian, and the line of demarcation. The purpose of the date line is to help maintain consistency in time and date around the world. When you cross the line, you move forward or backward by a day, depending on the direction of travel. While there are several ways to refer to this important line, the meaning and purpose of it remain the same.