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Mapping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mapping

[ˈmæpɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer programming

A collection of key-value pairs used to store and retrieve data efficiently. It allows for fast lookups and is commonly used in various programming languages.

Synonyms

association, correspondence, relation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mapping

Used when talking about creating a direct connection or path between two sets of information.

  • The app's mapping function lets users generate a route between their current location and their destination.
  • We need a mapping strategy to assign these tasks to the team members efficiently.
association

Used to indicate a connection or link between things or people, often informal or conceptual.

  • Many people have a strong association of summertime with holidays and relaxation.
  • The study looks at the association between diet and health.
correspondence

Refers to a relationship where things match or are similar, often in communication or formal context.

  • There is a clear correspondence between the symptoms observed and the disease described in the textbook.
  • We maintain regular correspondence with our overseas partners.
relation

Used to describe how things are connected to one another, broader and more general than 'association'.

  • The research investigates the relation between economic policies and growth.
  • Their relation is professional rather than personal.

Examples of usage

  • Mapping in Python is implemented using dictionaries.
  • The mapping function in JavaScript transforms each element of an array.
Context #2 | Noun

cartography

The process of creating a visual representation of an area, usually on a flat surface such as a map. It involves gathering geographic data and converting it into a usable form.

Synonyms

cartography, charting, mapping out.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mapping

Used for general purposes when creating a visual representation of an area or concept.

  • The team is mapping the new hiking trails
  • We are mapping the process to improve efficiency
cartography

Used in a more formal or scientific context, specifically related to the profession or study of map-making.

  • She studied cartography in university
  • Advances in cartography have made navigation more accessible
charting

Often used in nautical or scientific contexts, focusing on the creation of detailed maps or graphs.

  • They are charting the course for the sailing expedition
  • The scientists are charting the data collected from the experiment
mapping out

Used for planning or outlining a strategy, often in a detailed and methodical manner.

  • We are mapping out our business plan for the next year
  • She is mapping out her travel itinerary

Examples of usage

  • Cartographers use mapping techniques to depict terrain features.
  • GIS technology has revolutionized the field of mapping.
Context #3 | Noun

mathematics

A function that assigns each element of one set to a unique element of another set. It establishes a relationship between two sets.

Synonyms

function, relation, transformation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mapping

Use when referring to the process of linking or associating elements from one set to elements of another set. Commonly used in mathematics, computer science, and data analysis.

  • The mapping between these two data sets is well-defined.
  • In our project, we need to create a mapping of user IDs to their respective roles.
function

Ideal for mathematical contexts or programming where a specific input produces a specific output through a defined process.

  • The function of f(x) = x^2 is used to calculate the square of a number.
  • In JavaScript, the function calculates the sum of two numbers.
transformation

Use when describing a process that changes or modifies something from one state to another, often used in mathematics, physics, and personal development.

  • The transformation of water into ice occurs at 0 degrees Celsius.
  • The data transformation process ensures that raw data is converted into meaningful insights.
relation

Best for describing a connection or association between multiple elements, often seen in mathematics, sociology, and database systems.

  • The relation between supply and demand affects prices.
  • This database table defines the relation between customers and their orders.

Examples of usage

  • The quadratic mapping transforms a point in the plane to a new point.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • Mapping is crucial in geography, helping to represent physical spaces like mountains, rivers, and cities.
  • Modern mapping techniques involve satellite imagery and GIS (Geographic Information Systems), allowing for detailed and interactive maps.
  • Topographic maps reveal elevation changes, making them essential for hikers and engineers.

Technology

  • In computer science, mapping often refers to associative data structures, like dictionaries, where keys are linked to values.
  • Data mapping is a key process in data integration, which involves transforming data from one format or structure to another.
  • HTML mapping allows web developers to specify clickable areas on images that link to different resources.

Education

  • Concept maps help students visually organize knowledge and show relationships between ideas, playing a vital role in education.
  • Mind mapping is a technique used for brainstorming ideas where concepts are visually linked to help in learning and memory retention.
  • Mapping skills are taught in geography and history classes to help students understand relationships between locations and events.

Art

  • In art, mapping can refer to the practice of creating visual representations of thoughts or emotions, often seen in abstract art.
  • Street art often incorporates mapping themes, as artists visually communicate social messages about locations and communities.
  • Interactive art installations may encourage viewers to create their own mappings of spaces and experiences.

Origin of 'mapping'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'map', which originates from the Latin term 'mappa', meaning 'napkin' or 'cloth'. Early maps were often drawn on cloth.
  • In the 16th century, the term 'mapping' began to be used to describe the process of creating maps.
  • Over time, the usage expanded from physical maps to include concepts in data and information organization.

The word 'mapping' originated from the verb 'map,' which dates back to the late 16th century. It stems from the Middle Dutch word 'mappen,' meaning 'to draw or color.' The concept of mapping has evolved over time, from early cartography to modern digital mapping technologies. Today, mapping plays a crucial role in various fields, including geography, computer science, and mathematics.

See also: map, mapmaker, mapmaking, mapper, unmapped.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,402 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.