English Reference

Word

topographic

Phoneticsto·po·graph·ic

US/ˌtɑpəˈɡɹæfɪk/

UK/tˌɒpəɡɹˈæfɪk/

Definition

adj. describing the physical features of an area of land, such as its hills, valleys, and rivers.

adj. relating to the detailed mapping or charting of the physical features of a relatively small area. Often used to describe maps that represent three-dimensional terrain on a two-dimensional surface.

Examples

“The hikers studied a topographic map to find the easiest path.”

“The engineering team conducted a topographic survey to determine the best location for the new bridge.”

“Advanced satellite imagery allows for the creation of highly accurate topographic models, which are essential for predicting how floodwaters will move through complex urban environments.”

Examples

simple

“The hikers studied a topographic map to find the easiest path.”

contextual

“The engineering team conducted a topographic survey to determine the best location for the new bridge.”

complex

“Advanced satellite imagery allows for the creation of highly accurate topographic models, which are essential for predicting how floodwaters will move through complex urban environments.”

Usage

Typically used attributively before nouns like 'map', 'survey', or 'feature'.

Real-World Examples

“A topographic map shows the elevation of the Tibetan Plateau, rimmed by the Himalayas to the south and west.”
The Conversation · 10 Sept 2026
“These geological and topographic features found on the planet's surface have also preserved a record of how Mercury has evolved.”
Phys.org · 13 Sept 2026

Word family

This entry

Level
C1 · Advanced
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

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English Reference