SKIP TO CONTENT

cartogram

/ˈkɑrtəˌgræm/
IPA guide

Other forms: cartograms

A cartogram turns a map into a graphic representation of facts and numbers associated with different countries or regions.

As an example, to dramatically show which countries on a continent have the largest populations, a cartogram might distort the relative sizes of each country. Those with larger populations are made to appear larger in comparison to those with smaller populations — despite their actual relative sizes. In this way, the map is changed into a picture that conveys specific information about the places, showing different populations as the sizes of the countries. Cartograms may have odd-looking shapes and dimensions, but they can be a good way to show important information.

Definitions of cartogram
  1. noun
    a map that shows facts or numbers of geographic regions
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘cartogram'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family