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Gazetteer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gazetteer

[ษกรฆzษ™หˆtษชr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

reference work

A gazetteer is a geographical dictionary or directory that provides information about the geographical makeup, cultural statistics, and historical context of a particular region or area. It typically includes features such as place names, their locations, and details about their significance. Gazetteers serve essential roles in mapping, travel planning, and academic research, helping users to understand the spatial aspects of different regions or locales. They can come in various forms, including online databases, printed volumes, and atlases.

Synonyms

atlas, directory, geographical index.

Examples of usage

  • The gazetteer listed all the towns in the state.
  • Researchers referred to the gazetteer to find historical sites.
  • The travel book included a detailed gazetteer of local landmarks.

Translations

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Origin of 'gazetteer'

The word 'gazetteer' originates from the French word 'gazette,' which referred to a newspaper. The connection arose in the late 17th century when writers began to compile geographical information for publications. The term evolved to describe works that provide detailed geographical information about places, often in list format. Over time, 'gazetteer' has taken on broader meanings, including works that provide statistical and historical information. Its usage in English peaked in the 19th century as gazetteers became vital resources in education and exploration, becoming more formalized with the advent of detailed national and international mapping. Today, gazetteers remain relevant in various fields, such as history, cartography, and geography.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,357 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.