Etymology
The word "surveying" originates from the Old French word "surveoir," which means "to look over" or "to observe." It is derived from the Latin words "super" (meaning "over") and "videre" (meaning "to see").
Meaning
Surveying is the art and science of determining the positions, elevations, and dimensions of the Earth's surface, both above and below sea level. It involves measuring and mapping the natural and artificial features of the land, including the location and shape of objects, their elevation, and the relationship between them.
Origin
The practice of surveying has existed for centuries, with its roots in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. Early surveying techniques involved using simple tools such as measuring rods, compasses, and theodolites to determine distances, angles, and elevations.
As civilizations advanced, so did the methods and technologies used for surveying. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the invention of the telescope and the development of trigonometry enabled more accurate measurements. The 19th century saw the introduction of theodolite with micrometer scales, which allowed for precise measurements of angles.
In the 20th century, the advancement of technology led to the development of aerial photography and photogrammetry, which provided a faster and more efficient way to map the Earth's surface. Today, surveying incorporates the latest technologies, including GPS, remote sensing, and laser scanning, to provide highly accurate and detailed information for various applications.
Etymology French survoir to look over oversee Meaning A method of gathering
