ETYM French topographie, Greek; topos a place + grafein to write.
1. Precise detailed study of the surface features of a region.
2. The configuration of a surface and the relations among its man-made and natural features.
The surface shape and composition of the landscape, comprising both natural and artificial features, and its study. Topographical features include the relief and contours of the land; the distribution of mountains, valleys, and human settlements; and the patterns of rivers, roads, and railroads.
Geography of a locality; configuration of a land surface; arrangement of physical features.