Synonym Chooser

How does the noun elevation contrast with its synonyms?

The words altitude and height are common synonyms of elevation. While all three words mean "vertical distance either between the top and bottom of something or between a base and something above it," altitude and elevation apply to height as measured by angular measurement or atmospheric pressure; altitude is preferable when referring to vertical distance above the surface of the earth or above sea level; elevation is used especially in reference to vertical height on land.

fly at an altitude of 10,000 meters
Denver is a city with a high elevation

When can height be used instead of elevation?

The words height and elevation can be used in similar contexts, but height refers to something measured vertically whether high or low.

a wall two meters in height

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of elevation Lighter snow up to an inch or two is possible in some of the Northeast’s lower elevations. Mary Gilbert, CNN, 4 Dec. 2024 The ascent is widely considered one of the greatest achievements in modern mountaineering, setting a speed record, and offering a mind-bending new perspective on the viability of going fast and light at extreme elevations. Matt Coté, Outside Online, 28 Nov. 2024 Using three available elevations on each of their previous practice squad long snappers, Matt Overton and Tucker Addington, Triner comes with plenty of big-game experience as a Super Bowl champion with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 27 Nov. 2024 Style it with a pointed-toe, knee-high boot, and tailored maxi coat for easy outfit elevation. Laura Jackson, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for elevation 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elevation
Noun
  • If reports are to be believed, this may not be the last time he'll be seen with the popular promotion.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 15 Dec. 2024
  • In the past, such roles have offered fertile ground for graft, especially bribes for promotions.
    Nectar Gan, CNN, 15 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Mojave Desert’s gold rush sparks a mini real estate boom Apparently there’s still gold in them hills.
    Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2024
  • Given the lack of economic opportunities in the area at the time, Ryan left home after high school, working at a ski hill and then in construction before enrolling in a tourism program at university.
    Sofia Perez, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Her vision for the team is clear: to build a culture of excellence that honors the franchise’s history while pushing it toward new heights.
    Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 9 Dec. 2024
  • The price of typical luxury hotels and resorts is reaching eye-watering heights.
    Doug Gollan, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • The first two players on that list were 23 and 24 years respectively in 2022 and appeared to be on the ascent.
    Tony Blengino, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
  • But Honnold has never free climbed the route—a style that allows climbers to use ropes and climbing gear for protection but not to aid the ascent.
    Jayme Moye, Outside Online, 9 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • That’s because the mounds were hard and also sensitive to touch.
    Julia Ries, SELF, 11 Dec. 2024
  • Video showed several homeowners in Erie, Pennsylvania, hand shoveling large piles of snow and using snow blowers to clear the mounds from their driveways and walkways Saturday, according to CNN affiliate WICU.
    Ashley R. Williams, CNN, 1 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • In a video from Bergen County, New Jersey, lights that appear to come from a mysterious drone appear to fly at a low altitude.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr., USA TODAY, 10 Dec. 2024
  • The lake, surrounded by hills, is located at an altitude of roughly 5,400 feet above sea level.
    Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • In an environment of rapid technological advancement and evolving trade policies, semiconductor capital equipment companies are positioned to thrive.
    John Buckingham, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more.
    Taylor Nicioli, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Western Siskiyou County is similarly advised, while those in the West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada mountains and Western Plumas County and Lassen Park County should also take care.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 16 Dec. 2024
  • Hike along the Beagle Channel on the Senda Costera, or push yourself on the steep Cerro Guanaco Trail for awe-inspiring views of mountains plunging into icy waters.
    Alexandra Gillespie, Outside Online, 16 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near elevation

Cite this Entry

“Elevation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elevation. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on elevation

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