elevation

elevation vertical distance from a datum plane, usually mean sea level to a point above the earth. Often used synonymously with altitude , elevation is the height on the earth's surface and altitude, the height in space above the surface. The elevation of a feature is calculated through such surveying techniques as trigonometric triangulation and aerial photogrammetry. Elevation is represented by using contours of equal elevation lines, three-dimensional computer graphics representation, or molded three-dimensional plastic models.

elevation n.
1. the vertical distance of a point or level on or affixed to the surface of the Earth measured from mean sea level.

2. the setting on the sight of a mortar, artillery piece, or other gun or missile launcher used to regulate the arc of the projectile or missile and thus its distance and striking point.

elevation.
1. Accurate geometrical projection, drawn to scale, of a building's façade or any other visible external or internal part on a plane vertical (at a right angle) to the horizon.

2. Any external façade.

Bibliography

Fraser Reekie (1946)