Definition of elevationnext

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

Example 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 The park ranges from roughly 200 to 2,000 feet in elevation, so the outing can be a gentle walk or a seriously out-of-breath climb. David Hochman, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026 Although the role of innovation officer is not a new one at L’Oréal, its recent elevation to the executive committee demonstrates the company’s continuing commitment to innovation as a strategic priority. Francesca Cassidy, Fortune, 22 June 2026 One explanation for the name comes from Charlotte’s higher elevation, Tom Hanchett, a Charlotte community historian, explained to The Charlotte Observer in 2015. Eva Flowe june 22, Charlotte Observer, 22 June 2026 Central Mexico’s Querétaro state produces lovely sparkling wines with bracing acidity, a product of the vineyards’ high elevation. Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for elevation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elevation
Noun
  • That’s exactly how Comber — now store director, after a promotion — has used it.
    Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • Amron, Dane, Amanda and Alondra bring deep relationships and a modern understanding of the business, and Chinazam and Kashia have each earned these promotions through hard work and strong instincts.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • From the bar of his restaurant Dorfman, pointed across the valley to a hill wherea Hezbollah flag once flew.
    Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 23 June 2026
  • Before this year, the production record was held by a 2022 Porsche 911 Turbo S that was pulled off the production line, outfitted with a roll cage and a fuel cell, and then sent up the hill at the hands of local legend David Donner in 9 minutes and 53 seconds.
    Tim Stevens, ArsTechnica, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • The Knicks at the height of the celebrations Thursday.
    Amina Kilpatrick, NBC news, 19 June 2026
  • The book's cover features a photo of Collin and Kate that appears to be taken during the height of Jon & Kate Plus 8's popularity.
    Daniel S. Levine, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • But that’s just another note in a unique situation given Brown’s ascent after being traded.
    Tony East, Forbes.com, 19 June 2026
  • Supporters credit him with helping elevate UF’s national profile, secure billions of dollars in public investment and drive the university’s ascent in rankings.
    Garrett Shanley, Miami Herald, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • Martín Pérez was on the mound for the home team, a soft-tossing veteran lefty who was pumping in 89-mph sinkers.
    Chad Bishop, AJC.com, 20 June 2026
  • Edwin Díaz throwing off mound Closer Edwin Díaz (elbow surgery) has progressed to throwing off the mound.
    Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2026
Noun
  • Witnesses saw the plane struggle to gain altitude before turning left, stalling and falling to the ground.
    Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 17 June 2026
  • Cranes required for construction could reach heights of up to 320 feet, potentially creating hazards for aircraft operating at altitudes as low as 500 feet.
    Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 17 June 2026
Noun
  • Audit your current succession planning process this quarter and implement a mechanism that allows employees to self-nominate for advancement opportunities, ensuring that career trajectories are shaped by direct employee input rather than managerial assumptions.
    Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
  • Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • One of Pakistan’s top mediators flew to Tehran to persuade Iranian negotiators to reconsider and come to the talks in the Swiss mountains.
    Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 21 June 2026
  • That air should be JR’s vital collaborator — no complex and costly scaffolding for these magic mountains — is nothing new in Paris.
    Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Elevation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elevation. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.

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