# geographic

/ˌdʒiəˈɡɹæfɪk/ (US) · /dʒˌɪəɡɹˈæfɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/geographic
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. related to geography

adjective · CEFR B1

relating to the study of the Earth's surface, countries, and natural features.

For teachers: pertaining to the science of geography or the physical features of a specific region.

- The mountain range forms a natural geographic barrier between the two countries.
- The researchers mapped the geographic distribution of the species to understand how climate change was forcing them into higher altitudes.

### 2. true physical location

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

based on the Earth's actual poles rather than magnetic ones.

For teachers: determined by the Earth's axis of rotation, specifically to distinguish 'true' north from magnetic north.

- The compass points to magnetic north, which is different from the geographic North Pole.
- Navigators must account for the declination between magnetic north and geographic north to ensure the vessel remains on its intended course.

Usage: Usually placed before the noun it modifies, such as 'geographic North Pole'.

## Examples

- The mountain range creates a natural geographic barrier between the two countries.
- Researchers are mapping the geographic distribution of rare plants to better understand how climate change affects local ecosystems.
- The company's expansion strategy was limited by geographic constraints, as the rugged terrain made the construction of a reliable transport network prohibitively expensive.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.