base map

A map or chart showing certain fundamental information, used as a base upon which additional data of specialized nature are compiled or overprinted. Also a map containing all the information from which maps showing specialized information can be prepared. See also chart base. 1/3/74

1. Carte présentant certaines informations fondamentales, utilisée comme fond sur lequel des renseignements supplémentaires ou particuliers sont imprimés en surcharge. 2. Egalement carte contenant toutes informations à partir desquelles peuvent être établies des cartes donnant des renseignements particuliers; cartes utilisées comme source de renseignements. Voir aussi base topographique. 1/3/74

See: map, base.

Map on which information may be placed for purposes of comparison or geographical correlation. The term "base map" was at one time applied to a class of maps now known as outline maps. It may be applied to topographic maps, also termed "mother maps" that are used in the construction of other types of maps by the addition of particular data.