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 In the higher elevation regions of Custer Gallatin National Forest, the wildflower season often extends into September. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2025 Because of its plum location—one of the highest elevations in Jackson County—people traveling on Blue Ridge Boulevard had sweeping views to both the east and west. Randy Mason, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2025 The structures—built between the 1920s and 1960s—are built at slight elevations and capitalize on their surroundings by framing sweeping views of mountains and hills. Kristine Hansen, Architectural Digest, 30 May 2025 The Figari vineyard sits at 4,000 feet of elevation at the base of the Omu di Cagna Mountain while the Bonifacio vineyard is situated above the Mediterranean near the Bonifacio cliffs. Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for elevation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elevation
Noun
  • Make Promotions Default Milkman and Pink advocate for a shift in promotion practices, suggesting that organizations should make promotions the default rather than requiring individuals to opt-in.
    Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
  • Otherwise, Polk frequently received glowing feedback before and after her promotion to sergeant in 2021.
    Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 7 June 2025
Noun
  • If finding indoor shelter is not an option: Avoid open fields, hill peaks, or ridge tops.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 4 June 2025
  • The ride also was known for its dramatic 17-story, straight-up lift hill right out of the loading station.
    Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 June 2025
Noun
  • Choosing perennials with long bloom times, along with different heights and colors, adds charm and depth to the garden.
    Lauren David, Southern Living, 1 June 2025
  • Budget $300 to $500 for these pots, preferably in two or three different heights.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 May 2025
Noun
  • Protecting Authentic Japanese Whisky The ascent of Japanese whisky on the world’s stage came with an unfortunate side effect: a more deceptive counterpart masquerading under the same name.
    Chris Perugini, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
  • The ascent of this 32-year-old Dane has been breathtaking, but the artist, a man at ease with himself, is taking it all in stride.
    Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 2 June 2025
Noun
  • If all turns out well, Kirby is scheduled to be back on the mound on Sunday, June 8 against the Los Angeles Angels.
    Sean Neumann, People.com, 4 June 2025
  • The rule, adopted before the 2020 season but not implemented until this year due to the upheavals caused by the coronavirus pandemic, states that a team cannot use a position player on the mound unless there is a difference of six or more runs between the two teams.
    Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2025
Noun
  • Aged at an altitude of over 7,500 feet in the highlands of Quetzaltenango, it is known for its sweet, velvety character.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
  • Noctilucent clouds are wispy, silvery-blue clouds found at much higher altitudes than usual.
    Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 May 2025
Noun
  • Communities that have historically been at the back of the line for technological advancements can now potentially leapfrog to implementing cutting-edge solutions tailored to their specific needs.
    Dr. Sreeram Mullankandy, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
  • Do any technological advancements really surprise you anymore?
    Joe Cermele, Outdoor Life, 5 June 2025
Noun
  • Standing atop the ruins of the palace at Knossos, I’m surrounded by semi-arid, wooded mountains that envelop this complicated maze.
    Bruce Dorminey, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • It’s also got a wealth of signature natural wonders to show off, from the mountains to the sea, just as the Paris Games featured the Eiffel Tower and the magical evening skyline.
    Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Elevation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elevation. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

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