noun / verb

map

A representation of an area or relationships, or to create such a representation.

The map shows every hiking trail in the park.

Etymology

Latin mappa meant a cloth. Through expressions for a representation of the world, the word came to name a drawn representation of places or relationships.

More examples

  • We use a street map to find the library.
  • Her concept map shows connections between the main ideas.
  • The researchers map the ocean floor.
  • We mapped out the steps needed to finish the project.

Forms

map · maps · mapped · mapping

mapper noun — A person or tool that creates maps.

Similar words

chart
Often displays data or provides detailed information for navigation.
diagram
Emphasizes structure or relationships rather than geographic locations.
plot
As a verb, marks locations or data points on a representation.