Map \map\, n. [From F. mappe, in mappemonde map of the world, fr. L. mappa napkin, signal cloth; -- a Punic word. Cf Apron, Napkin, Nappe.]

1. A representation of the surface of the earth, or of some portion of it, showing the relative position of the parts represented; -- usually on a flat surface. Also, such a representation of the celestial sphere, or of some part of it
2. Anything which represents graphically a succession of events, states, or acts; as, an historical map

   Thus is his cheek the map of days outworn. --Shak

3. A diagrammatic representation of the earth's surface (or part of it); there are five principal kinds of projection used in making maps: the orthographic, the stereographic, the globuar, the conical, and the cylindrical, or Mercator's projection.
4. A function such that for every element of one set there is a unique element of another set [syn: mapping, correspondence]

Map \map\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. mapped; p. pr. & vb. n mapping.]

1. To represent by a map; -- often with out; as, to survey and map, or map out, a county. Hence, figuratively: To represent or indicate systematically and clearly; to sketch; to plan; as, to map, or map out, a journey; to map out business

   I am near to the place where they should meet, if Pisanio have mapped it truly. --Shak

2. Make a map of; show or establish the features of details of: "map the surface of Venus"
3. Explore or survey for the purpose of making a map; "We haven't even begun to map the many galaxies that we know exist"
4. Locate within a specific region of a chromosome in relation to known DNA or gene sequences; "map the genes"
5. Plan, delineate, or arrange in detail; ""map one's future" [syn: map out]
6. Depict as if on a map; "sorrow was mapped on the mother's face"
7. To establish a mapping (of mathematical elements or sets) [syn: represent]