cartographer

UK: kɑːˈtɒɡrəfə | US: kɑːrˈtɑːɡrəfər

Definition

  1. n. a person who draws or produces maps

Structure
carto <map>graph <write/draw>er <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "cartographer" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Carto" derives from the Latin "charta" (meaning "paper" or "map"), later adapted into French as "carte" (map).
  2. "Graph" comes from the Greek "graphein" (to write or draw), a common root in English for terms related to writing or recording (e.g., "graphic," "autograph").
  3. The suffix "-er" denotes a person who performs an action (e.g., "writer," "painter").
    The term emerged in the 19th century, reflecting the scientific precision of map-making as a profession.
Examples

  1. The cartographer meticulously plotted the coastline on the new atlas.

  2. Modern cartographers use satellite imagery to create accurate maps.

  3. She trained as a cartographer to combine her love of geography and art.

  4. Ancient cartographers often filled uncharted areas with mythical creatures.

  5. The museum exhibited tools used by Renaissance cartographers.