mapping
UK: ˈmæpɪŋ | US: ˈmæpɪŋ
n. the process of creating a visual or conceptual representation of an area or system
n. (computing) the association of elements from one set to another
v. (gerund) the act of charting or plotting data spatially
The word "mapping" derives from "map," which originated in the 16th century from Medieval Latin mappa (meaning "cloth" or "chart") via Old French mappe. The suffix "-ing" transforms the noun/verb into a gerund or continuous action form. Historically, "map" referred to physical charts drawn on cloth or parchment, but its meaning expanded to abstract representations (e.g., data mapping) in modern usage.
The mapping of the ocean floor revealed unknown trenches.
Geologists use GIS software for precise terrain mapping.
Memory mapping optimizes computer processing speed.
Her project involves mapping customer preferences to product features.
Early explorers dedicated years to mapping uncharted territories.