noun

geoid

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Geoid (noun) means the theoretical shape the Earth's oceans would take if shaped only by gravity and rotation, ignoring winds, tides and other forces. Example: “Surveyors use the geoid as a reference surface for measuring height.”

noun

technical The theoretical shape the Earth's oceans would take if shaped only by gravity and rotation, ignoring winds, tides and other forces.

"Surveyors use the geoid as a reference surface for measuring height."

"The geoid dips and bulges slightly because the Earth's gravity isn't perfectly even."

"Satellite data has helped scientists map the geoid more precisely."

How to use geoid

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe geoid is the wobbly, gravity-shaped surface scientists use as a stand-in for sea level everywhere on Earth.

When to use it

Geoid is a specialist term from geodesy, not something used in everyday speech.

Memory tip

Picture the geoid as sea level extended under the continents; that is the easiest way to remember what it means.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

ellipsoid

Common pairings

the shape of the geoid geoid model geoid height map the geoid

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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”.

Test yourself on “geoid” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Surveyors use the _____ as a reference surface for measuring height.

Etymology

Borrowed from German Geoid, itself built from geo-, meaning earth, and the suffix -oid, meaning shape or form.

Origin: German

Rhymes for geoid

void avoid hyoid droid devoid android tabloid steroid typhoid thyroid humanoid asteroid

See all rhymes for geoid →

Frequently asked questions

What is a geoid used for?

It serves as a reference surface, representing zero elevation, against which land heights can be measured.

How is the geoid different from a sphere?

Unlike a perfect sphere, the geoid follows the Earth's uneven gravity field, so it dips and bulges according to gravitational variations.

Does the geoid follow the shape of continents?

Yes, the geoid's imaginary surface extends underneath landmasses as well as oceans.

What is the meaning of geoid?

"geoid" (noun) means the theoretical shape the Earth's oceans would take if shaped only by gravity and rotation, ignoring winds, tides and other forces.