Definition

(1) The vertical distance of a POINT or a LEVEL, on the surface of the EARTH, measured from a specified vertical DATUM usually MEAN SEA LEVEL. The term elevation is sometimes confused with ALTITUDE. For paper NAUTICAL CHARTS, this term is often synonymous with HEIGHT. (2) For navigational lights, such as lighthouses, the vertical distance of the focal point of the light measured from a specified vertical DATUM. (3) An area higher than its surroundings, as a hill.