ordinance survey
Definition
- Noun (proper noun):
- The official mapping agency of Great Britain: "Ordnance Survey" (often capitalized) is the national mapping authority for Great Britain, responsible for creating and maintaining detailed maps of the country. It was originally established by the British government for military purposes (surveying ordnance, or military supplies and artillery).
- A map produced by this agency: Informally, "ordnance survey" can refer to a map published by the Ordnance Survey, known for its high level of detail and accuracy.
Usage Examples
- (The official mapping agency of Great Britain.)
- (A detailed map produced by that agency.)
Advanced Usage
"Ordnance Survey map": A specific type of map, often called an "OS map," known for showing terrain, landmarks, and grid references.
- Before GPS, hikers relied on ordnance survey maps for navigation. (Detailed paper maps from the Ordnance Survey.)
"Ordnance Survey grid reference": A coordinate system used on OS maps to pinpoint locations.
- Give me the Ordnance Survey grid reference for the summit. (A precise location code from the map.)
Variants and Related Words
Ordnance (noun): Military supplies, weapons, and artillery.
- The term "ordnance survey" originates from the Board of Ordnance, which oversaw military mapping. (The source of the agency's name.)
Survey (noun/verb): The act of examining and recording an area's features.
- The survey of the coastline took several months. (The process of mapping.)
Synonyms
- Mapping agency: An organization that creates maps.
- Topographic map: A detailed map showing physical features of the land (similar to an OS map).
Phrasal Verbs (none directly applicable)
Related Idioms
- "As accurate as an Ordnance Survey map": Used to describe something extremely precise.
- Her directions were as accurate as an Ordnance Survey map. (Very exact and reliable.)