noun

geodesy

jee-OD-ih-see

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Geodesy (noun) means the scientific discipline concerned with measuring and describing the Earth's shape, its gravitational field, and changes such as polar motion, tides and crustal movement. Example: “Geodesy relies on satellite data to track shifts in the Earth's crust.”

noun

technical The scientific discipline concerned with measuring and describing the Earth's shape, its gravitational field, and changes such as polar motion, tides and crustal movement.

"Geodesy relies on satellite data to track shifts in the Earth's crust."

"She studied geodesy to understand how GPS positioning actually works."

"Modern geodesy measures Earth tides as well as its overall shape."

How to use geodesy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGeodesy is the science of measuring the Earth's true shape and how it shifts over time.

When to use it

It is a technical term used in earth sciences, surveying and mapping.

Memory tip

Think of geodesy as measuring the planet itself, distinct from geology, which studies what the planet is made of.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

geodetic geology →

Common pairings

satellite geodesy geodesy and surveying branch of geodesy modern geodesy

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ relies on satellite data to track shifts in the Earth's crust.

Etymology

Geodesy came into English from French géodésie, itself from Medieval Latin geodaesia, which traces back to the Ancient Greek geodaisia. That Greek word combines ge, meaning earth, with a root meaning to divide.

Origin: French

Rhymes for geodesy

cheesy heresy cutesy bluesy courtesy prophesy

See all rhymes for geodesy →

Frequently asked questions

What does geodesy mean?

Geodesy is the science of measuring the Earth's exact shape, its gravitational field, and how its surface moves over time.

Is geodesy the same as geography?

No, geodesy focuses specifically on precise measurement of the Earth's form and motion, while geography covers a much broader study of places and landscapes.

Where is geodesy used?

It underlies technologies such as GPS and satellite positioning, as well as mapping and monitoring geological movement.

What is the meaning of geodesy?

"geodesy" (noun) means the scientific discipline concerned with measuring and describing the Earth's shape, its gravitational field, and changes such as polar motion, tides and crustal movement.