Map (?), n. [From F. mappe, in mappemonde map of the world, fr. L. mappa napkin, signal cloth; — a Punic word. Cf. Apron, Napkin, Nappe.] 1. A representation of the surface of the earth, or of some portion of it, showing the relative position of the parts represented; — usually on a flat surface. Also, such a representation of the celestial sphere, or of some part of it.
☞ There are five principal kinds of projection used in making maps: the orthographic, the stereographic, the globuar, the conical, and the cylindrical, or Mercator's projection. See Projection.
2. Anything which represents graphically a succession of events, states, or acts; as, an historical map.
Thus is his cheek the map of days outworn. Shak.
Map lichen(Bot.), a lichen (Lecidea geographica.) growing on stones in curious maplike figures. Dr. Prior.