contour line

American  

noun

1. a line joining points of equal elevation on a surface.

2. the representation of such a line on a map.

3. Mathematics. a line parallel to a trace.

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contour line British  

noun

1. Often shortened to: contour.  a line on a map or chart joining points of equal height or depth

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contour line Scientific  

/ kŏn′tr′ /

1. A line on a map joining points of equal elevation above a given level, usually mean sea level.

2. ◆ The change in elevation between one contour line and the next is the contour interval.

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Etymology

Origin of contour line

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Had they studied a topographic map before buying this home, they could have seen from the contour lines how much land above them collected water, then funneled it to their lot.

From Seattle Times

It arcs along a contour line 2 feet below the typical low tide.

From Seattle Times

The rising contour line of the snow pile in the foreground continues into the background hill, which itself merges with the receding roof line of the tallest building.

From Washington Post

“It’s using the rainwater,” he explained, “using the contour lines, using your environment and nature to grow food.”

From Washington Post

The map turtles’ name is derived from shell markings that resemble the contour lines on topographic maps.

From Seattle Times