terrain

[tuh-reyn]

noun

1. a tract of land, especially as considered with reference to its natural features, military advantages, etc.

2. Geology.,  terrane.

terrain

/ təˈreɪn, ˈtɛreɪn /

noun

1. ground or a piece of ground, esp with reference to its physical character or military potential

   radio reception can be difficult in mountainous terrain

   a rocky terrain

2. a variant spelling of terrane

Word History and Origins

Origin of terrain¹

1720–30; < French ≪ Vulgar Latin *terrānum, noun use of neuter of *terrānus of land. See terra, -an

Word History and Origins

Origin of terrain¹

C18: from French, ultimately from Latin terrēnum ground, from terra earth

Example Sentences

Daisy seemed surprised, maybe even confused, by the altered terrain.

From Los Angeles Times

Over the years, she has operated a variety of trains across the length and breadth of India, sometimes navigating challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions.

From BBC

From the sand dunes, looking inland, the terrain gradually climbs into dense bushland.

From BBC

The terrain made for arduous access to their property and their contractor told them building costs would soar unless they convinced their neighbors to let them truck materials through their then-empty lots.

From Los Angeles Times

The bluffs, canyons and mountainous terrain that comprise the interior of the base has been fertile training ground for those sent to conflicts in the Middle East and beyond.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• area 
• contour 
• field 
• ground 
• land 
• province 
• region 
• soil 
• territory 
• topography 
• turf