from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Map \Map\ (m[a^]p), n. [From F. mappe, in mappemonde map of the
world, fr. L. mappa napkin, signal cloth; -- a Punic word.
Cf. {Apron}, {Napkin}, {Nappe}.]
1. A representation of the surface of the earth, or of some
portion of it, showing the relative position of the parts
represented; -- usually on a flat surface. Also, such a
representation of the celestial sphere, or of some part of
it.
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Note: There are five principal kinds of projection used in
making maps: the orthographic, the stereographic, the
globuar, the conical, and the cylindrical, or
Mercator's projection. See {Projection}.
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2. Anything which represents graphically a succession of
events, states, or acts; as, an historical map.
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Thus is his cheek the map of days outworn. --Shak.
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{Map lichen} (Bot.), a lichen ({Lecidea geographica}.)
growing on stones in curious maplike figures. --Dr. Prior.
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