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

The terrain of the Llanos de Moxos is filled with geometric forms that reveal themselves on closer inspection.

Read more on Science Daily

"They need the help of someone who knows the terrain very well."

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She and her grandmother raced to a relative's house on higher terrain.

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Navigation involves the challenge of a robot getting from point A to point B. This may involve unknown terrain, stairs and obstacles.

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Photographs show a scorched and mangled drone, and satellite images reveal the extent of the damage to the terrain.

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Related Words

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