What is a optical range of 1x means?

In relation to the cameras, digital and optical have a zoom range of 1x to 20x or more. In layman’s term , what is the equivalent distance of 1x? is it 1x = 1ft?, or1x = 1 meter? If I need to get a better picture with a distance of 100 meters, what kind of camera must I purchase? With the same inquiry above, if I prefer a video camcorder, what are your suggestions? Thank you.