Meaning & Definition of word "Terrain"

Terrain

/tɛˈreɪn/

noun:

  • 1. A stretch of land, especially with regard to its physical features.
    • Example: The hiker enjoyed the rugged terrain of the mountainous region.
  • 2. A particular area of land or surface.
    • Example: The terrain of the desert presents unique challenges for exploration.
  • 3. Ground or land with specific characteristics, often used in the context of military strategy.
    • Example: The soldiers had to adapt their tactics based on the urban terrain.
  • 4. The physical characteristics of a region, including its elevation, slope, and vegetation.
    • Example: Mapping the terrain is essential for any construction project.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Old French terre ‘land, earth’, from Latin terra.

Common Phrases and Expressions

rough terrain:

land that is difficult to traverse due to its unevenness or obstacles.

urban terrain:

the physical characteristics of a city or metropolitan area.

terrain map:

a type of map that shows the physical landscape of an area, including elevation and landforms.

Related Words

topography:

The arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.

landform:

A natural feature of the Earth's surface.

geography:

The study of the Earth's physical features and the relationships between people and their environment.

Slang Meanings of terrain

Meaning: To be out in nature or the wilderness.

Example Sentence: We're going to hit the terrain this weekend.

Meaning: To navigate difficult or complex situations.

Example Sentence: He really knows how to handle the terrain in this business.