What does "chart" mean?

1. (data diagram) a drawing that shows information in a simple way, like a graph or a table. 2. (a map) a map used by sailors or pilots to find their way. 3. (music rankings) a list of the most popular songs or albums each week. 4. (to plan or map) to plan a path or to make a map of an area. 5. (to record progress) to record how something changes or develops over time.

chart

n. · v.

US //ˈtʃɑɹt// UK //tʃˈɑːt// chart

1 data diagram (n.)
A2 Elementary Academic

a drawing that shows information in a simple way, like a graph or a table.

a systematic visual representation of data, such as a graph, table, or diagram.

Example

The sales chart shows that we sold more coffee in December than in November.

Example

The researchers presented a detailed bar chart illustrating the correlation between urban green spaces and resident well-being over a ten-year period.
2 a map (n.)
B1 Intermediate Technical

a map used by sailors or pilots to find their way.

a map designed for navigation, particularly for nautical or aeronautical use.

Example

The captain looked at the sea chart to avoid the shallow water.

Example

Navigators must consult updated nautical charts to identify shifting sandbars and submerged hazards that may not be visible from the surface.
- map
- plan

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3 music rankings (n.)
B1 Intermediate Music

a list of the most popular songs or albums each week.

a weekly ranking of the most popular music recordings based on sales or airplay.

Example

Their new song went straight to the top of the charts.

Example

Despite receiving minimal radio airplay, the indie band managed to climb the charts thanks to a viral social media campaign.
- rankings
- hit parade
4 to plan or map (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to plan a path or to make a map of an area.

to map an area or to outline a course of action or route.

Example

The explorers wanted to chart the unknown parts of the river.

Example

The leadership team met to chart a new course for the company following the unexpected merger with its primary competitor.
- map
- plot
- plan
5 to record progress (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

to record how something changes or develops over time.

to record or track the progress or development of something systematically.

Example

The doctors used a graph to chart the patient's recovery.

Example

The study aims to chart the linguistic development of bilingual children from infancy through their primary school years.

Origin

Borrowed from Middle French charte (“card, map”), from Late Latin charta (“paper, card, map”), Latin charta (“papyrus, writing”), from Ancient Greek χάρτης (khártēs, “papyrus, thin sheet”). Doublet of card and carte; related to charter.