atlas

at·las

noun \ˈat-ləs\

Definition of ATLAS

1

capitalized : a Titan who for his part in the Titans' revolt against the gods is forced by Zeus to support the heavens on his shoulders

2

capitalized : one who bears a heavy burden

3

a : a bound collection of maps often including illustrations, informative tables, or textual matter b : a bound collection of tables, charts, or plates

4

: the first vertebra of the neck

5

plural usually at·lan·tes \ət-ˈlan-(ˌ)tēz, at-\ : a male figure used like a caryatid as a supporting column or pilaster —called also telamon

Examples of ATLAS

1. a road atlas of the U.S.

Illustration of ATLAS

Origin of ATLAS

Latin Atlant-, Atlas, from Greek

First Known Use: 1513

Other Cartography Terms

Robinson projection, benchmark, plat, projection, topography

Rhymes with ATLAS

fatless, hatless