planimetry: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Formal
Quick answer
What does “planimetry” mean?
The measurement of plane surfaces.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The measurement of plane surfaces; the branch of geometry dealing with the properties and measurements of two-dimensional figures.
In broader technical or historical contexts, it can refer to the description and analysis of the geographical layout of an area as depicted on a map.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or spelling. Usage is consistent in academic and technical contexts.
Connotations
Neutral, precise, technical in both varieties.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language; used almost exclusively in specialist fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “planimetry” in a Sentence
[NOUN] of [AREA/MAP][ADJECTIVE] planimetryVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “planimetry” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- planimetric surveying
- a planimetric map
American English
- planimetric survey
- planimetric data
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in mathematics, geography, and surveying departments.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Primary context: found in mathematical texts, cartography, surveying manuals, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software documentation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “planimetry”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “planimetry”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “planimetry”
- Misspelling as 'planametry' or 'planometery'.
- Confusing with 'planetary'.
- Using it as a synonym for general 'measurement'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Planimetry deals only with two-dimensional horizontal measurements (area, distances on a plane), while topography includes the third dimension—relief and elevation.
Yes, it remains fundamental in cartography, land registry, and any field requiring accurate area calculations from maps or plans, often serving as the base layer for 3D models.
Yes, while often geographical, it can apply to measuring the area of any two-dimensional shape in engineering, manufacturing, or biology.
A planimetric map shows only the horizontal positions of features (like roads, buildings, boundaries) without any relief or contour information.
The measurement of plane surfaces.
Planimetry is usually technical/formal in register.
Planimetry: in British English it is pronounced /pləˈnɪm.ɪ.tri/, and in American English it is pronounced /pləˈnɪm.ɪ.tri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'PLAN' (like a flat, two-dimensional map) + 'METRY' (measurement) = measuring flat plans.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE EARTH IS A FLAT SHEET (in the context of cartographic planimetry).
Practice
Quiz
Planimetry is most closely related to which field?