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Geodesy: meaning, definitions and examples

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geodesy

 

[ jiˈɒdəzi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

science field

Geodesy is the science that deals with the measurement and representation of the Earth's geometric shape, its gravitational field, and how these change over time. It involves the use of mathematical and physical principles to determine positions on the Earth's surface with high precision. Geodesy is crucial for various applications, including navigation, mapping, and understanding sea level rise. The field encompasses both theoretical and practical aspects, making it interdisciplinary in nature.

Synonyms

earth measurement, geodetics

Examples of usage

  • Geodesy plays a vital role in mapping the Earth's surface accurately.
  • Modern geodesy utilizes satellite technology for precise measurements.
  • Understanding geodesy is essential for engineers and surveyors.

Translations

Translations of the word "geodesy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 geodésia

🇮🇳 जियोडेसिका

🇩🇪 Geodäsie

🇮🇩 geodesi

🇺🇦 геодезія

🇵🇱 geodezja

🇯🇵 測地学

🇫🇷 géodésie

🇪🇸 geodesia

🇹🇷 jeodezi

🇰🇷 지구측량학

🇸🇦 علم الجيوديسيا

🇨🇿 geodézie

🇸🇰 geodézia

🇨🇳 测量学

🇸🇮 geodezija

🇮🇸 jarðfræði

🇰🇿 геодезия

🇬🇪 გეოდეზია

🇦🇿 geodeziya

🇲🇽 geodesia

Etymology

The word 'geodesy' comes from the Ancient Greek words 'geo-', meaning 'earth', and 'daiein', meaning 'to divide'. The combination of these terms reflects the practice's origins in measuring and dividing the Earth's surface. The discipline has evolved significantly since its early use, which can be traced back to ancient civilizations that aimed to create maps and navigate their surroundings. Notably, the Greeks and Romans employed rudimentary methods of land surveying, which laid the groundwork for modern geodesy. With advancements in science and technology, particularly in the past few centuries, geodesy has incorporated more sophisticated techniques such as satellite positioning and global navigation systems. These innovations have greatly enhanced the accuracy and capabilities of geodetic measurements, enabling better studies of the Earth's shape and gravitational variations, which are vital for various scientific and practical applications today.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,958, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.