Cartography: meaning, definitions and examples

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cartography

 

[ kɑːˈtɒɡrəfi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

study of maps

Cartography is the study and practice of making maps. It involves the science and art of creating visual representations of the Earth's surface, showing various features such as landforms, cities, roads, and political boundaries.

Synonyms

mapmaking, mapping.

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Word Description / Examples
cartography

This term is used in academic and professional settings to refer to the science or practice of drawing maps.

  • She studied cartography at the university.
  • Modern cartography involves the use of complex software.
mapmaking

Mapmaking is a more general term that can be used in both casual and professional contexts. It describes the process of creating maps, often implying a simpler or more hands-on approach.

  • Back in the day, mapmaking was a labor-intensive task.
  • He enjoys mapmaking as a hobby.
mapping

This term is versatile and can be used in various contexts, not just geography. It refers to the act of creating a visual representation of an area or a process.

  • She spent the afternoon mapping the hiking trail.
  • The scientist was mapping the human genome.

Examples of usage

  • Cartography plays a crucial role in navigation and geography.
  • The advancements in technology have revolutionized cartography.
  • Cartography can help us understand the world around us better.

Translations

Translations of the word "cartography" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cartografia

🇮🇳 मानचित्रण (mānchitraṇ)

🇩🇪 Kartographie

🇮🇩 kartografi

🇺🇦 картографія

🇵🇱 kartografia

🇯🇵 地図製作 (ちずせいさく, chizu seisaku)

🇫🇷 cartographie

🇪🇸 cartografía

🇹🇷 kartografya

🇰🇷 지도학 (jidohak)

🇸🇦 رسم الخرائط (rasm alkhara'it)

🇨🇿 kartografie

🇸🇰 kartografia

🇨🇳 制图学 (zhìtú xué)

🇸🇮 kartografija

🇮🇸 kortagerð

🇰🇿 картография

🇬🇪 კარტოგრაფია (kartografia)

🇦🇿 kartoqrafiya

🇲🇽 cartografía

Etymology

The term 'cartography' originated from the Greek word 'chartis', meaning 'map' or 'papyrus'. Cartography has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans, who used maps for navigation, military purposes, and land surveying. The development of cartography has evolved over time, incorporating advancements in technology and exploration.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,053, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.