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

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

From Seattle Times • Sep. 3, 2022

But whereas some modern-dance choreographers give us pure dance that’s all too contained, Ms. Gerring gives us phrases of exuberant sweep, shape, contour, line, impetus.

From New York Times • Dec. 13, 2015

Sites below the crucial contour line are dominated by millet.

From Economist • Nov. 19, 2014

Their capacitive, touch-sensing screens can register your every contour line and crosshatch.

From Slate • Jun. 26, 2014

A majority of art is initially conceived in terms of contour line.

From "History of Art, Volume 1" by H.W. Janson