What does hachure mean?
A hachure is a short, broken line used in cartography and drawing to indicate relief or texture on a map or surface. This technique is often used in combination with other cartographic features, such as contour lines and shading, to create a sense of depth and relief. Hachures can be used to show the rolling hills and valleys of a countryside, or to create a textured effect in a painting. The term 'hachure' comes from the French word 'hachure', meaning 'to chop or cut', and is often used in the context of map-making and drawing. While hachures are not as commonly used as other cartographic techniques, they can be a useful tool for creating a sense of texture and depth in a map or drawing.
nounA hachure is a short, broken line used in cartography and drawing to indicate relief or texture on a map or surface.
- A short, broken line used in cartography and drawing to indicate relief or texture on a map or surface.
"The map used hachures to show the rolling hills and valleys of the countryside."
"The map used hachures to show the rolling hills and valleys of the countryside."
"The artist used hachures to create a textured effect in her painting."
The plural form 'hachures' is used when referring to multiple hachures on a map or surface.
"The map used multiple hachures to show the rolling hills and valleys of the countryside."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hachure
The term 'hachure' originated in French, where it is used to describe a short, broken line used in drawing and cartography. The word is derived from the French verb 'hacher', meaning 'to chop or cut', and was likely adopted into English in the 18th century.
How hachure is actually used
Hachures are often used in combination with other cartographic features, such as contour lines and shading, to create a sense of depth and relief on a map.