Definition of altitudenext
1
as in elevation
the distance of something or someone from bottom to top the altitude of the highest mountain in the U.S. is only about two thirds that of the highest mountain in the world

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun altitude contrast with its synonyms?

The words elevation and height are common synonyms of altitude. 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 is height a more appropriate choice than altitude?

In some situations, the words height and altitude are roughly equivalent. However, 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 altitude Amenities can include cryotherapy pods, hyperbaric chambers, altitude training rooms, thermal pools and molecular nutrition labs, with menus crafted by nutritionists to align with each guest’s treatment plan. Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 5 May 2026 Advances in altitude training, data analytics and recovery protocols enable athletes to push closer to physiological limits while minimizing injury risk. New Atlas, 5 May 2026 Facilities include cryotherapy, altitude training and a panoramic indoor pool. Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 5 May 2026 Apparently those rules don’t apply at high altitude. Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for altitude
Recent Examples of Synonyms for altitude
Noun
  • The drawings contained in the design plans show the front elevation, top and projection of the president's desk in the Oval Office.
    Edward Segarra, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
  • At roughly 12,400 feet elevation, surrounded by steep terrain, loose rock and snow, there was no safe way up or down.
    Amber Harding OutKick, FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Each new hill brings a slightly different and powerful view of Martinez and its petroleum refinery infrastructure; farther in the horizon, like a mirage of an ivory city, shimmers a wind-turbine farm.
    John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 4 May 2026
  • Outside, the layout opens up around a roughly 50-foot pool that stretches alongside a wooden deck with sweeping views of the hills and ocean.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 4 May 2026
Noun
  • The documentary chronicled the height of outlaw country, which saw Coe in good company — Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Steve Earle, and the Charlie Daniels Band are also featured.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2026
  • Cut up to half the sedge's height in early spring to thin it out.
    Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 30 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Altitude.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/altitude. Accessed 7 May. 2026.

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