Coordinates Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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coordinates

[kษ™สŠหˆษ”หdษชnษ™ts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

geography

A set of numbers that specifies the precise location of a point on the Earth's surface in relation to a fixed system. Coordinates are commonly expressed as latitude and longitude.

Examples of usage

  • The coordinates of the Eiffel Tower are approximately 48.8584ยฐ N, 2.2945ยฐ E.
  • She used the coordinates provided to locate the hidden treasure.
  • The GPS uses coordinates to determine your exact position.
  • The coordinates for the meeting point are 40.7128ยฐ N, 74.0060ยฐ W.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • In mathematics, coordinates are used in graphs to show positions using a grid system.
  • Geographic coordinates utilize latitude and longitude to pinpoint any location on Earth.

Technology

  • GPS technology uses coordinates to deliver your location to devices, helping with navigation and maps.
  • Modern mapping applications rely heavily on coordinates to provide directions and distances.

History

  • Early navigation relied on celestial coordinates, using the stars to guide sailors across oceans.
  • The Cartesian coordinate system, introduced by Renรฉ Descartes in the 17th century, revolutionized how positions were plotted mathematically.

Literature

  • Coordinates are often used in literature to describe the precise setting of a scene, enhancing the reader's visualization.
  • In stories involving exploration or adventure, characters may use coordinates to find hidden treasures or lost civilizations.

Origin of 'coordinates'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin roots 'co-' meaning 'together' and 'ordinare,' which means 'to arrange or order.'
  • Originally used in mathematics, the term has now spread into various fields including navigation and geography.

The word 'coordinates' originated from the Latin word 'co-' meaning 'together' and 'ordinare' meaning 'to arrange'. The concept of coordinates has been used for centuries to help navigate and map locations on Earth. The development of latitude and longitude coordinates was crucial for global exploration and mapping. Today, coordinates are widely used in various fields such as geography, cartography, and navigation.


See also: coordinate, coordinated, coordinately, coordinating, coordination, coordinator, uncoordinated.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,079 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.