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. Compare trace ¹( def 11 ).

contour line

noun

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

contour line

/ 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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of contour line¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Burnt oranges and limes, powder-blue backgrounds, green shadows on skin, blue contour lines.

From Washington Post

The scenery is quietly pleasant, the hills away to the southwest exceeding, here and there, the 500 feet contour line.

From Project Gutenberg

Who gave the 1,000 feet contour line that arbitrary nomenclature is unknown.

From Project Gutenberg

The contour-line of 0, or datum level, is the coastal boundary of any land form.

From Project Gutenberg

It follows the 600-feet contour-line and winds 211 therefore exactly round the outline of the hill.

From Project Gutenberg

It ran straight along the 300-feet contour-line, and took the southern edge of a wood called Brockham Warren.

From Project Gutenberg