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.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 23 May 2025
  • Synopsis: Set in a timeless English village, where everything is picturesque – everything, that is, except for the vampires living in the castle on the hill who come out at night for a little drink of the locals.
    Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 21 May 2025
Noun
  • Yet arguably his greatest achievement was to raise the bar of the entire Premier League, pushing rivals like Manchester City to new heights in order for Pep Guardiola’s men to finish above Liverpool.
    Adam Digby, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
  • To prevent the display from looking boring, create visual contrast through elements other than color—just varying the height, size, shape, and texture of the objects will create an eye-catching vignette. 3.
    Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • Trump’s pick for IRS If Long is confirmed, his elevation to IRS commissioner would mark a rapid ascent for a former congressman who had appeared potentially done with politics.
    Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 20 May 2025
  • Expect to get your burn on early, with the heart-pumping Walter’s Wiggles, a series of 21 switchbacks that drop you at Scout Overlook, where the Angels Landing ascent begins.
    Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 17 May 2025
Noun
  • The lopsided affair featured plenty of highlights from the Horned Frogs including a masterpiece on the mound by Tommy LaPour and a number of record-setting performances by TCU’s hitters.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 May 2025
  • In six big-league seasons before the trade, Luzardo had shown great stuff on the mound but had struggled to stay healthy.
    Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 May 2025
Noun
  • Bombardier claims the 8000 will have the lowest cabin pressurization of any business jet, 2,900 feet at a 41,000-foot cruising altitude.
    Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 20 May 2025
  • McDowell further explained that the white streak was caused by the fuel dump from the upper stage at about 155 miles (250 kilometers) altitude.
    Daisy Dobrijevic, Space.com, 19 May 2025
Noun
  • The settlement included over 4,000 Google employees in California and New York, with plaintiffs making the case that Google kept Black employees in lower-level jobs, paid them less, lowered their performance ratings and prevented Black employees from advancement.
    Janice Gassam Asare, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025
  • Among the brand’s recent advancements in activewear, the StudioSmooth collection launched in February with leggings, bras, tops, a skort, biker shorts, athletic dresss and full zips.
    David Moin, Footwear News, 23 May 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 2 Jun. 2025.

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