contour line

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.

contour line

noun

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

contour line

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of contour line¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Without a contour line out of place and a perfected walk in stilettos, she wooed the judges with her bold, glitzy and saucy looks.

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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.

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

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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.

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

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