Mercator (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/mərˈkeɪtəʳ/

Meaning and Usage

The term "Mercator" primarily refers to Gerardus Mercator, a 16th-century Flemish cartographer known for creating the Mercator projection, which is a cylindrical map projection that became widely used for marine navigation due to its ability to represent lines of constant course. In modern usage, "Mercator" can also refer to maps or charts derived from this projection.

The usage of "Mercator" is more common in written contexts, especially in disciplines like geography, cartography, and navigation. Its frequency of use can be considered moderate, particularly in academic texts and discussions related to map-making or navigation.

Example Sentences

1. The Mercator projection is often criticized for distorting the sizes of landmasses near the poles.

2. Проекция Меркатора часто подвергается критике за искажение размеров земельных масс около полюсов.

3. Many sailors prefer to use maps based on the Mercator projection for their navigational needs.

4. Многие моряки предпочитают использовать карты, основанные на проекции Меркатора, для своих навигационных нужд.

5. The historical significance of Mercator's work cannot be overstated in the field of cartography.

6. Историческую значимость работы Меркатора нельзя переоценить в области картографии.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "Mercator" does not have a wide range of idiomatic expressions directly associated with it, it can be contextualized in discussions about navigation, mapping, and perspective.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Usage

1. When navigating through complex waters, it's essential to "chart a course" using a reliable Mercator map.

2. При навигации по сложным водам важно «начертить курс», используя надежную карту Меркатора.

3. In discussions about global perspectives, one must be careful not to "lose sight of the big picture" when relying solely on the Mercator projection.

4. В обсуждениях о глобальных перспективах следует быть осторожным, чтобы не «потерять из виду общую картину», полагаясь исключительно на проекцию Меркатора.

5. His decision to continue using outdated Mercator maps caused him to "miss the boat" on current navigation techniques.

6. Его решение продолжать использовать устаревшие карты Меркатора заставило его «упустить возможность» современных навигационных техник.

Etymology

The name "Mercator" comes from the Latin word "mercator," meaning "merchant," and is derived from the name of Gerardus Mercator, whose full name was Gerhard Kremer. He adopted the name Mercator as a reference to the merchant trade, as his maps were widely used by seafarers and traders.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Mapper - Cartographer

Antonyms: - Misrepresenter (in the context of map distortions) - Non-cartographer

Summary

"Mercator" is a significant term primarily rooted in the field of cartography, representing a crucial mapping technique developed by Gerardus Mercator. Its importance transcends mere naming, influencing navigation and geographic understanding. While not abundant in idiomatic expressions, it finds relevance in discussions about navigation and perspective.