Topograph

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. To describe in detail the physical features and layout of a region or locality ; to represent the surface characteristics of a place through artistic or literary means
2. To map out or depict the natural and constructed features of a geographical area ; to portray or document the visible details of a landscape through visual or textual representation
3. To provide a detailed account of the terrain and topography of a location ; to render the outward appearance and configuration of a place in art, literature, or technical documentation

Etymology: "Topograph" is a plain compound built from "topo-", the combining form of the Greek "topos" meaning "place," and "-graph," from Greek "graphein," "to write" or "to draw." Put together, the parts describe an instrument or figure that records a place, so the word names something drawn or written about a location's features rather than a person who studies them. The pattern is typical of scientific and technical vocabulary, where English speakers assembled Greek elements to name new things. Because the combining forms are transparent, the meaning can be read straight from the pieces: a topograph is a representation of the physical shape and features of a particular place. The two parts remain easy to see, which is why the word is clear to anyone who knows that "graph" means something written or drawn.

Synonyms: map