Mercator projection

noun

: a conformal map projection of which the meridians are usually drawn parallel to each other and the parallels of latitude are straight lines whose distance from each other increases with their distance from the equator

Illustration of Mercator projection

Examples of Mercator projection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Seasons in the Hindu Kush—Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter,2009–11, has the spectator stand above crushed pots as if surveying terrain from above—the godlike perspective of the Mercator projection, where mountains become miniature and geography flattens into a navigable surface. — Anel Rakhimzhanova, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2026

In addition to the timetable, a world map (Mercator projection) is provided, showing the region where the occultation will be visible. — Joe Rao, Space.com, 8 Oct. 2025

Africa’s smaller-than-actual cartographic footprint in the Mercator projection contributes to the global lack of attention for Africa. — Big Think, 2 Sep. 2025

Mark Monmonier, a Syracuse University professor of geography, said the Mercator projection is obsolete and geographers have long advised people to not use it as a world map. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 23 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Gerardus Mercator

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Mercator projection

• abjection
• advection
• affection
• bijection
• bisection
• collection
• complexion
• confection
• connection
• connexion
• convection
• correction