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 Mirren's elevation to the group, which also includes British environmentalist David Attenborough, Canadian author Margaret Atwood and former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, was one of the highlights of Charles' latest award of honors. ABC News, 12 June 2026 This journey requires them to climb fish ladders over dams, navigate culverts diverting streams under roads, and ascend up to elevations of 7,000 feet. Idaho Statesman, 12 June 2026 Banff World Media Festival-goers are used to unpredictable Canadian Rockies weather, where drizzling rain can become snow showers and then balmy sunshine over a single day due to geography and elevation. Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 12 June 2026 The 40-foot elevation drop from the General Hospital forecourt to the commercial hub will be ameliorated by raising the low area about 20 feet. Los Angeles Times, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for elevation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elevation
Noun
  • Henderson Silver Knights coach Ryan Craig is the only coach who has been with the organization from Day 1, and could be in line for the ultimate promotion.
    Jesse Granger, New York Times, 16 June 2026
  • An individual used a promotion for a 5% discount off their fare, but the price to get to The Grove was actually about 50 cents higher than that of those who didn't receive a discount.
    Kristine Lazar, CBS News, 16 June 2026
Noun
  • The ranch saloon sits across from the open yard—and around the corner and up a hill of long yellow grass is the outdoor rodeo arena, home to lively summer rodeos every week in the summer season.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 June 2026
  • For a cooler-climate option, Sky Meadow Retreat in Vermont sits among the hills during peak fall foliage and pairs daily yoga and meditation with tai chi, art therapy, sound healing and forest hiking.
    Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 15 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
  • Meanwhile, Ukraine’s advancements in drone warfare and technology mean its military is inflicting far more casualties on Russia than earlier in the war.
    Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 14 June 2026
  • Surrounded by investment and innovation projects, the Mobile World Congress (MWC) kicks off today in Barcelona amid a context of euphoria but also tensions over artificial intelligence (AI), whose rapid advancement is shaking up the tech sector.
    Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 14 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 21 Jun. 2026.

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