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 These were the words of an elderly Creole woman from New Orleans, who spoke to me recently in light of the elevation of Robert Prevost to office of the Holy See. Darryl Barthé, Chicago Tribune, 25 May 2025 Spanning 228 feet across a deep chasm at 5,280 feet elevation, the bridge offers sweeping mountain views. Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 24 May 2025 More snow and nighttime freezes are forecast over the weekend at high elevations. John Meyer, Denver Post, 24 May 2025 Melling conveys the paradoxical elevation of Colin’s low self-esteem through the subservient relationship with an appealing pluckiness. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 18 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for elevation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elevation
Noun
  • Kroger The chain grocery store is offering a digital coupon for Private Selection 6-pack of Angus Beef Chuck Patties — normally $12.99, but $6.99 with the National Hamburger Day promotion.
    Rachel Raposas, People.com, 27 May 2025
  • Also keep in mind, travel advisers could have access to different promotions and discount codes, so seek their help to save money, said Wilkerson.
    Francine Knowles, Chicago Tribune, 26 May 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
  • The clip transitioned into a few family photos before showcasing videos of his children doing impressive flips and jumps down the mountain, with the ease of professionals.
    Hannah Sacks, People.com, 27 May 2025
  • The 33-year-old inmate, Angel Gaxiola, was discovered missing by the staff during a head count at Holton Conservation Camp, which is in the mountains northeast of Sylmar, about 9 p.m. Sunday, the department said.
    Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 27 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Elevation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elevation. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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