NGA GeoNet Names Designations: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Lab at MIT

Designation Code	Designation	Designation Definition
- A - [ Top of Page ]
ADM1	first-order administrative division	a primary administrative division of a country, such as a state in the United States
ADM2	second-order administrative division	a subdivision of a first-order administrative division
ADM3	third-order administrative division	a subdivision of a second-order administrative division
ADM4	fourth-order administrative division	a subdivision of a third-order administrative division
ADMD	administrative division	an administrative division of a country, undifferentiated as to administrative level
ADMF	administrative facility	a government building
AGRC	agricultural colony	a tract of land set aside for agricultural settlement
AGRF	agricultural facility	a building and/or tract of land used for improving agriculture
AIRB	airbase	an area used to store supplies, provide barracks for air force personnel, hangers and runways for aircraft, and from which operations are initiated
AIRF	airfield	a place on land where aircraft land and take off; no facilities provided for the commercial handling of passengers and cargo
AIRH	heliport	a place where helicopters land and take off
AIRP	airport	a place where aircraft regularly land and take off, with runways, navigational aids, and major facilities for the commercial handling of passengers and cargo
AIRQ	abandoned airfield
AIRS	seaplane landing area	a place on a waterbody where floatplanes land and take off
AMTH	amphitheater	an oval or circular structure with rising tiers of seats about a stage or open space
ANCH	anchorage	an area where vessels may anchor
ANS	ancient site	a place where archeological remains, old structures, or cultural artifacts are located
APNU	apron	a gentle slope, with a generally smooth surface, particularly found around groups of islands and seamounts [Undersea Feature]
ARCH	arch	a natural or man-made structure in the form of an arch
AREA	area	a tract of land without homogeneous character or boundaries
ARRU	arrugado	an area of subdued corrugations off Baja California [Undersea Feature, refers to the Guadalupe Arrugado; not to be applied to new features]
ASPH	asphalt lake	a small basin containing naturally occurring asphalt
ASTR	astronomical station	a point on the earth whose position has been determined by observations of celestial bodies
ASYL	asylum	a facility where the insane are cared for and protected
ATHF	athletic field	a tract of land used for playing team sports, and athletic track and field events
ATOL	atoll(s)	a ring-shaped coral reef which has closely spaced islands on it encircling a lagoon
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BAR	bar	a shallow ridge or mound of coarse unconsolidated material in a stream channel, at the mouth of a stream, estuary, or lagoon and in the wave-break zone along coasts
BAY	bay	a coastal indentation between two capes or headlands, larger than a cove but smaller than a gulf
BAYS	bays	coastal indentations between two capes or headlands, larger than a cove but smaller than a gulf
BCH	beach	a shore zone of coarse unconsolidated sediment that extends from the low-water line to the highest reach of storm waves
BCHS	beaches	a shore zone of coarse unconsolidated sediment that extends from the low-water line to the highest reach of storm waves
BCN	beacon	a fixed artificial navigation mark
BDG	bridge	a structure erected across an obstacle such as a stream, road, etc., in order to carry roads, railroads, and pedestrians across
BDGQ	ruined bridge	a destroyed or decayed bridge which is no longer functional
BDLD	badlands	an area characterized by a maze of very closely spaced, deep, narrow, steep-sided ravines, and sharp crests and pinnacles
BDLU	borderland	a region adjacent to a continent, normally occupied by or bordering a shelf, that is highly irregular with depths well in excess of those typical of a shelf [Undersea Feature]
BGHT	bight(s)	an open body of water forming a slight recession in a coastline
BKSU	banks	elevations, typically located on a shelf, over which the depth of water is relatively shallow but sufficient for safe surface navigation [Undersea Feature, 20m or more deep]
BLDG	building(s)	a structure built for permanent use, as a house, factory, etc.
BLDR	boulder field	a high altitude or high latitude bare, flat area covered with large angular rocks
BLHL	blowhole(s)	a hole in coastal rock through which sea water is forced by a rising tide or waves and spurted through an outlet into the air
BLOW	blowout(s)	a small depression in sandy terrain, caused by wind erosion
BNCH	bench	a long, narrow bedrock platform bounded by steeper slopes above and below, usually overlooking a waterbody
BNCU	bench	a small terrace [Undersea Feature]
BNK	bank(s)	an elevation, typically located on a shelf, over which the depth of water is relatively shallow but sufficient for most surface navigation
BNKR	stream bank	a sloping margin of a stream channel which normally confines the stream to its channel on land
BNKU	bank	an elevation, typically located on a shelf, over which the depth of water is relatively shallow but sufficient for safe surface navigation [Undersea Feature, 20m or more deep]
BNKX	section of bank
BOG	bog(s)	a wetland characterized by peat forming sphagnum moss, sedge, and other acid-water plants
BP	boundary marker	a fixture marking a point along a boundary
BRKS	barracks	a building for lodging military personnel
BRKW	breakwater	a structure erected to break the force of waves at the enterance to a harbor or port
BSND	drainage basin	the area drained by a stream
BSNP	petroleum basin	an area underlain by an oil-rich structural basin
BSNU	basin	a depression more or less equidimensional in plan and of variable extent [Undersea Feature]
BSTN	baling station	a facility for baling agricultural products
BTL	battlefield	the site of a land battle of historical importance
BTYD	boatyard	a waterside facility for servicing, repairing, and building small vessels
BUR	burial cave(s)	a cave used for human burials
BUSH	bush(es)	a small clump of conspicuous bushes in an otherwise bare area
BUTE	butte(s)	a small, isolated, usually flat-topped hill with steep sides
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CAPE	cape	a land area more prominent than a point, projecting into the sea and marking a notable change in coastal direction
CAPG	icecap	a dome-shaped mass of glacial ice covering an area of mountain summits or other high lands; smaller than an ice sheet
CARN	cairn	a heap of stones erected as a landmark or for other purposes
CAVE	cave(s)	an underground passageway or chamber, or cavity on the side of a cliff
CDAU	cordillera	an entire mountain system including the subordinate ranges, interior plateaus, and basins [Undersea Feature]
CFT	cleft(s)	a deep narrow slot, notch, or groove in a coastal cliff
CH	church	a building for public Christian worship
CHN	channel	the deepest part of a stream, bay, lagoon, or strait, through which the main current flows
CHNL	lake channel(s)	that part of a lake having water deep enough for navigation between islands, shoals, etc.
CHNM	marine channel	that part of a body of water deep enough for navigation through an area otherwise not suitable
CHNN	navigation channel	a buoyed channel of sufficient depth for the safe navigation of vessels
CLDA	caldera	a depression measuring kilometers across formed by the collapse of a volcanic mountain
CLF	cliff(s)	a high, steep to perpendicular slope overlooking a waterbody or lower area
CLG	clearing	an area in a forest with trees removed
CMN	common	a park or pasture for community use
CMP	camp(s)	a site occupied by tents, huts, or other shelters for temporary use
CMPL	logging camp	a camp used by loggers
CMPLA	labor camp	a camp used by migrant or temporary laborers
CMPMN	mining camp	a camp used by miners
CMPO	oil camp	a camp used by oilfield workers
CMPQ	abandoned camp
CMPRF	refugee camp	a camp used by refugees
CMTY	cemetery	a burial place or ground
CNFL	confluence	a place where two or more streams or intermittent streams flow together
CNL	canal	an artificial watercourse
CNLA	aqueduct	a conduit used to carry water
CNLB	canal bend	a conspicuously curved or bent section of a canal
CNLD	drainage canal	an artificial waterway carrying water away from a wetland or from drainage ditches
CNLI	irrigation canal	a canal which serves as a main conduit for irrigation water
CNLN	navigation canal(s)	a watercourse constructed for navigation of vessels
CNLQ	abandoned canal
CNLSB	underground irrigation canal(s)	a gently inclined underground tunnel bringing water for irrigation from aquifers
CNLX	section of canal
CNS	concession area	a lease of land by a government for economic development, e.g., mining, forestry
CNSU	canyons	relatively narrow, deep depressions with steep sides, the bottom of which generally has a continuous slope [Undersea Feature]
CNYN	canyon	a deep, narrow valley with steep sides cutting into a plateau or mountainous area
CNYU	canyon	a relatively narrow, deep depression with steep sides, the bottom of which generally has a continuous slope [Undersea Feature]
COLF	coalfield	a region in which coal deposits of possible economic value occur
COMC	communication center	a facility, including buildings, antennae, towers and electronic equipment for receiving and transmitting information
CONE	cone(s)	a conical landform composed of mud or volcanic material
COVE	cove(s)	a small coastal indentation, smaller than a bay
CRDR	corridor	a strip or area of land having significance as an access way
CRKT	tidal creek(s)	a meandering channel in a coastal wetland subject to bi-directional tidal currents
CRNT	current	a horizontal flow of water in a given direction with uniform velocity
CRQ	cirque	a bowl-like hollow partially surrounded by cliffs or steep slopes at the head of a glaciated valley
CRQS	cirques	bowl-like hollows partially surrounded by cliffs or steep slopes at the head of a glaciated valley
CRRL	corral(s)	a pen or enclosure for confining or capturing animals
CRSU	continental rise	a gentle slope rising from oceanic depths towards the foot of a continental slope [Undersea Feature]
CRTR	crater(s)	a generally circular saucer or bowl-shaped depression caused by volcanic or meteorite explosive action
CSNO	casino	a building used for entertainment, especially gambling
CST	coast	a zone of variable width straddling the shoreline
CSTL	castle	a large fortified building or set of buildings
CSTM	customs house	a building in a port where customs and duties are paid, and where vessels are entered and cleared
CSWY	causeway	a raised roadway across wet ground or shallow water
CSWYQ	former causeway	a causeway no longer used for transportation
CTHSE	courthouse	a building in which courts of law are held
CTRA	atomic center	a facility where atomic research is carried out
CTRB	business center	a place where a number of businesses are located
CTRCM	community center	a facility for community recreation and other activities
CTRF	facility center	a place where more than one facility is situated
CTRM	medical center	a complex of health care buildings including two or more of the following: hospital, medical school, clinic, pharmacy, doctor's offices, etc.
CTRR	religious center	a facility where more than one religious activity is carried out, e.g., retreat, school, monastery, worship
CTRS	space center	a facility for launching, tracking, or controlling satellites and space vehicles
CUET	cuesta(s)	an asymmetric ridge formed on tilted strata
CULT	cultivated area	an area under cultivation
CUTF	cutoff	a channel formed as a result of a stream cutting through a meander neck
CVNT	convent	a building where a community of nuns lives in seclusion
- D - [ Top of Page ]
DAM	dam	a barrier constructed across a stream to impound water
DAMQ	ruined dam	a destroyed or decayed dam which is no longer functional
DAMSB	sub-surface dam	a dam put down to bedrock in a sand river
DARY	dairy	a facility for the processing, sale and distribution of milk or milk products
DCK	dock(s)	a waterway between two piers, or cut into the land for the berthing of ships
DCKB	docking basin	a part of a harbor where ships dock
DCKD	dry dock	a dock providing support for a vessel, and means for removing the water so that the bottom of the vessel can be exposed
DCKY	dockyard	a facility for servicing, building, or repairing ships
DEPU	deep	a deep hole in a trench [Undersea Feature, refers to Challenger Deep, Emden Deep, and Horizon Deep; not to be applied to new features]
DEVH	housing development	a tract of land on which many houses of similar design are built according to a development plan
DIKE	dike	an earth or stone embankment usually constructed for flood or stream control
DLTA	delta	a flat plain formed by alluvial deposits at the mouth of a stream
DOMG	icecap dome	a comparatively elevated area on an icecap
DPOF	fuel depot	an area where fuel is stored
DPR	depression(s)	a low area surrounded by higher land and usually characterized by interior drainage
DPRG	icecap depression	a comparatively depressed area on an icecap
DSRT	desert	a large area with little or no vegetation due to extreme environmental conditions
DTCH	ditch	a small artificial watercourse dug for draining or irrigating the land
DTCHD	drainage ditch	a ditch which serves to drain the land
DTCHI	irrigation ditch	a ditch which serves to distribute irrigation water
DTCHM	ditch mouth(s)	an area where a drainage ditch enters a lagoon, lake or bay
DUNE	dune(s)	a wave form, ridge or star shape feature composed of sand
DVD	divide	a line separating adjacent drainage basins
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EDGU	shelf edge	a line along which there is a marked increase of slope at the outer margin of a continental shelf or island shelf
ERG	sandy desert	an extensive tract of shifting sand and sand dunes
ESCU	escarpment (or scarp)	an elongated and comparatively steep slope separating flat or gently sloping areas [Undersea Feature]
EST	estate(s)	a large commercialized agricultural landholding with associated buildings and other facilities
ESTB	banana plantation	an estate that specializes in the growing of bananas
ESTC	cotton plantation	an estate specializing in the cultivation of cotton
ESTO	oil palm plantation	an estate specializing in the cultivation of oil palm trees
ESTR	rubber plantation	an estate which specializes in growing and tapping rubber trees
ESTSG	sugar plantation	an estate that specializes in growing sugar cane
ESTSL	sisal plantation	an estate that specializes in growing sisal
ESTT	tea plantation	an estate which specializes in growing tea bushes
ESTX	section of estate
ESTY	estuary	a funnel-shaped stream mouth or embayment where fresh water mixes with sea water under tidal influences
- F - [ Top of Page ]
FAN	fan(s)	a fan-shaped wedge of coarse alluvium with apex merging with a mountain stream bed and the fan spreading out at a low angle slope onto an adjacent plain
FANU	fan	a relatively smooth feature normally sloping away from the lower termination of a canyon or canyon system [Undersea Feature]
FCL	facility	a building or buildings housing a center, institute, foundation, hospital, prison, mission, courthouse, etc.
FISH	fishing area	a fishing ground, bank or area where fishermen go to catch fish
FJD	fjord	a long, narrow, steep-walled, deep-water arm of the sea at high latitudes. Usually along mountainous coasts
FJDS	fjords	long, narrow, steep-walled, deep-water arms of the sea at high latitudes, usually along mountainous coasts
FLD	field(s)	an open as opposed to wooded area
FLDI	irrigated field(s)	a tract of level or terraced land which is irrigated
FLLS	waterfall(s)	a perpendicular or very steep descent of the water of a stream
FLLSX	section of waterfall(s)
FLTM	mud flat(s)	a relatively level area of mud either between high and low tide lines, or subject to flooding
FLTT	tidal flat(s)	a large flat area of mud or sand attached to the shore and alternately covered and uncovered by the tide
FLTU	flat	a small level or nearly level area [Undersea Feature]
FNDY	foundry	a building or works where metal casting is carried out
FORD	ford	a shallow part of a stream which can be crossed on foot or by land vehicle
FRKU	fork	a branch of a canyon or valley [Undersea Feature]
FRM	farm	a tract of land with associated buildings devoted to agriculture
FRMQ	abandoned farm
FRMS	farms	tracts of land with associated buildings devoted to agriculture
FRMT	farmstead	the buildings and adjacent service areas of a farm
FRST	forest(s)	an area dominated by tree vegetation
FRSTF	fossilized forest	a forest fossilized by geologic processes and now exposed at the earth's surface
FRSU	forks	a branch of a canyon or valley [Undersea Feature]
FRZU	fracture zone	an extensive linear zone of irregular topography of the sea floor, characterized by steep-sided or asymmetrical ridges, troughs, or escarpments [Undersea Feature]
FSR	fissure	a crack associated with volcanism
FT	fort	a defensive structure or earthworks
FURU	furrow	a closed, linear, narrow, shallow depression [Undersea Feature]
FY	ferry	a boat or other floating conveyance and terminal facilities regularly used to transport people and vehicles across a waterbody
- G - [ Top of Page ]
GAP	gap	a low place in a ridge, not used for transportation
GAPU	gap	a narrow break in a ridge or rise [Undersea Feature]
GASF	gasfield	an area containing a subterranean store of natural gas of economic value
GATE	gate	a controlled access entrance or exit
GDN	garden(s)	an enclosure for displaying selected plant or animal life
GHSE	guest house	a house used to provide lodging for paying guests
GLCR	glacier(s)	a mass of ice, usually at high latitudes or high elevations, with sufficient thickness to flow away from the source area in lobes, tongues, or masses
GLYU	gully	a small valley-like feature [Undersea Feature]
GOSP	gas-oil separator plant	a facility for separating gas from oil
GRAZ	grazing area	an area of grasses and shrubs used for grazing
GRGE	gorge(s)	a short, narrow, steep-sided section of a stream valley
GRSLD	grassland	an area dominated by grass vegetation
GRVC	coconut grove	a planting of coconut trees
GRVE	grave	a burial site
GRVO	olive grove	a planting of olive trees
GRVP	palm grove	a planting of palm trees
GRVPN	pine grove	a planting of pine trees
GULF	gulf	a large recess in the coastline, larger than a bay
GVL	gravel area	an area covered with gravel
GYSR	geyser	a type of hot spring with intermittent eruptions of jets of hot water and steam
- H - [ Top of Page ]
HBR	harbor(s)	a haven or space of deep water so sheltered by the adjacent land as to afford a safe anchorage for ships
HBRX	section of harbor
HDLD	headland	a high projection of land extending into a large body of water beyond the line of the coast
HERM	hermitage	a secluded residence, usually for religious sects
HLL	hill	a rounded elevation of limited extent rising above the surrounding land with local relief of less than 300m
HLLS	hills	rounded elevations of limited extent rising above the surrounding land with local relief of less than 300m
HLLU	hill	an elevation rising generally less than 500 meters [Undersea Feature]
HLSU	hills	elevations rising generally less than 500 meters [Undersea Feature]
HLT	halting place	a place where caravans stop for rest
HMCK	hammock(s)	a patch of ground, distinct from and slightly above the surrounding plain or wetland. Often occurs in groups
HMDA	rock desert	a relatively sand-free high bedrock plateau in a hot desert, with or without a gravel veneer
HOLU	hole	a small depression of the sea floor [Undersea Feature]
HSE	house(s)	a building used as a human habitation
HSEC	country house	a large house, mansion, or chateau, on a large estate
HSP	hospital	a building in which sick or injured, especially those confined to bed, are medically treated
HSPC	clinic	a medical facility associated with a hospital for outpatients
HSPD	dispensary	a building where medical or dental aid is dispensed
HSPL	leprosarium	an asylum or hospital for lepers
HSTS	historical site	a place of historical importance
HTH	heath	an upland moor or sandy area dominated by low shrubby vegetation including heather
HTL	hotel	a building providing lodging and/or meals for the public
HUT	hut	a small primitive house
HUTS	huts	small primitive houses
- I - [ Top of Page ]
INDS	industrial area	an area characterized by industrial activity
INLT	inlet	a narrow waterway extending into the land, or connecting a bay or lagoon with a larger body of water
INLTQ	former inlet	an inlet which has been filled in, or blocked by deposits
INSM	military installation	a facility for use of and contol by armed forces
INTF	interfluve	a relatively undissected upland between adjacent stream valleys
ISL	island	a tract of land, smaller than a continent, surrounded by water at high water
ISLF	artificial island	an island created by landfill or diking and filling in a wetland, bay, or lagoon
ISLM	mangrove island	a mangrove swamp surrounded by a waterbody
ISLS	islands	tracts of land, smaller than a continent, surrounded by water at high water
ISLT	land-tied island	a coastal island connected to the mainland by barrier beaches, levees or dikes
ISLX	section of island
ISTH	isthmus	a narrow strip of land connecting two larger land masses and bordered by water
ITTR	research institute	a facility where research is carried out
- J - [ Top of Page ]
JTY	jetty	a structure built out into the water at a river mouth or harbor entrance to regulate currents and silting
- K - [ Top of Page ]
KNLU	knoll	an elevation rising generally more than 500 meters and less than 1,000 meters and of limited extent across the summit [Undersea Feature]
KNSU	knolls	elevations rising generally more than 500 meters and less than 1,000 meters and of limited extent across the summits [Undersea Feature]
KRST	karst area	a distinctive landscape developed on soluble rock such as limestone characterized by sinkholes, caves, disappearing streams, and underground drainage
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LAND	Arctic land	a tract of land in the Arctic
LAVA	lava area	an area of solidified lava
LBED	lake bed(s)	a dried up or drained area of a former lake
LCTY	locality	a minor area or place of unspecified or mixed character and indefinite boundaries
LDGU	ledge	a rocky projection or outcrop, commonly linear and near shore [Undersea Feature]
LDNG	landing	a place where boats receive or discharge passengers and freight, but lacking most port facilities
LEPC	leper colony	a settled area inhabited by lepers in relative isolation
LEV	levee	a natural low embankment bordering a distributary or meandering stream; often built up artificially to control floods
LEVU	levee	an embankment bordering a canyon, valley, or seachannel [Undersea Feature]
LGN	lagoon	a shallow coastal waterbody, completely or partly separated from a larger body of water by a barrier island, coral reef or other depositional feature
LGNS	lagoons	shallow coastal waterbodies, completely or partly separated from a larger body of water by a barrier island, coral reef or other depositional feature
LGNX	section of lagoon
LK	lake	a large inland body of standing water
LKC	crater lake	a lake in a crater or caldera
LKI	intermittent lake
LKN	salt lake	an inland body of salt water with no outlet
LKNI	intermittent salt lake
LKO	oxbow lake	a crescent-shaped lake commonly found adjacent to meandering streams
LKOI	intermittent oxbow lake
LKS	lakes	large inland bodies of standing water
LKSB	underground lake	a standing body of water in a cave
LKSC	crater lakes	lakes in a crater or caldera
LKSI	intermittent lakes
LKSN	salt lakes	inland bodies of salt water with no outlet
LKSNI	intermittent salt lakes
LKX	section of lake
LOCK	lock(s)	a basin in a waterway with gates at each end by means of which vessels are passed from one water level to another
LTER	leased area	a tract of land leased by the United Kingdom from the People's Republic of China to form part of Hong Kong
LTHSE	lighthouse	a distinctive structure exhibiting a major navigation light
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MAR	marina	a harbor facility for small boats, yachts, etc.
MDVU	median valley	the axial depression of the mid-oceanic ridge system [Undersea Feature]
MDW	meadow	a small, poorly drained area dominated by grassy vegetation
MESA	mesa(s)	a flat-topped, isolated elevation with steep slopes on all sides, less extensive that a plateau
MESU	mesa	an isolated, extensive, flat-topped elevation on the shelf, with relatively steep sides [Undersea Feature]
MFG	factory	one or more buildings where goods are manufactured, processed or fabricated
MFGB	brewery	one or more buildings where beer is brewed
MFGC	cannery	a building where food items are canned
MFGCU	copper works	a facility for processing copper ore
MFGLM	limekiln	a furnace in which limestone is reduced to lime
MFGM	munitions plant	a factory where ammunition is made
MFGN	salt evaporation ponds	diked salt ponds used in the production of solar evaporated salt
MFGPH	phosphate works	a facility for producing fertilizer
MFGQ	abandoned factory
MFGSG	sugar refinery	a facility for converting raw sugar into refined sugar
MGV	mangrove swamp	a tropical tidal mud flat characterized by mangrove vegetation
MILB	military base	a place used by an army or other armed service for storing arms and supplies, and for accommodating and training troops, a base from which operations can be initiated
MKT	market	a place where goods are bought and sold at regular intervals
ML	mill(s)	a building housing machines for transforming, shaping, finishing, grinding, or extracting products
MLM	ore treatment plant	a facility for improving the metal content of ore by concentration
MLO	olive oil mill	a mill where oil is extracted from olives
MLSG	sugar mill	a facility where sugar cane is processed into raw sugar
MLSGQ	former sugar mill	a sugar mill no longer used as a sugar mill
MLSW	sawmill	a mill where logs or lumber are sawn to specified shapes and sizes
MLWND	windmill	a mill or water pump powered by wind
MLWTR	water mill	a mill powered by running water
MN	mine(s)	a site where mineral ores are extracted from the ground by excavating surface pits and subterranean passages
MNA	mining area	an area of mine sites where minerals and ores are extracted
MNAU	gold mine(s)	a mine where gold ore, or alluvial gold is extracted
MNC	coal mine(s)	a mine where coal is extracted
MNCR	chrome mine(s)	a mine where chrome ore is extracted
MNCU	copper mine(s)	a mine where copper ore is extracted
MND	mound(s)	a low, isolated, rounded hill
MNDT	diatomite mine(s)	a place where diatomaceous earth is extracted
MNDU	mound	a low, isolated, rounded hill [Undersea Feature]
MNFE	iron mine(s)	a mine where iron ore is extracted
MNMT	monument	a commemorative structure or statue
MNN	salt mine(s)	a mine from which salt is extracted
MNNI	nickel mine(s)	a mine where nickel ore is extracted
MNPB	lead mine(s)	a mine where lead ore is extracted
MNPL	placer mine(s)	a place where heavy metals are concentrated and running water is used to extract them from unconsolidated sediments
MNQ	abandoned mine
MNQR	quarry(-ies)	a surface mine where building stone or gravel and sand, etc. are extracted
MNSN	tin mine(s)	a mine where tin ore is extracted
MOLE	mole	a massive structure of masonry or large stones serving as a pier or breakwater
MOOR	moor(s)	an area of open ground overlaid with wet peaty soils
MOTU	moat	an annular depression that may not be continuous, located at the base of many seamounts, islands, and other isolated elevations [Undersea Feature]
MRN	moraine	a mound, ridge, or other accumulation of glacial till
MRSH	marsh(es)	a wetland dominated by grass-like vegetation
MRSHN	salt marsh	a flat area, subject to periodic salt water inundation, dominated by grassy salt-tolerant plants
MSQE	mosque	a building for public Islamic worship
MSSN	mission	a place characterized by dwellings, school, church, hospital and other facilities operated by a religious group for the purpose of providing charitable services and to propagate religion
MSSNQ	abandoned mission
MSTY	monastery	a building and grounds where a community of monks lives in seclusion
MT	mountain	an elevation standing high above the surrounding area with small summit area, steep slopes and local relief of 300m or more
MTS	mountains	a mountain range or a group of mountains or high ridges
MTSU	mountains	a well-delineated subdivision of a large and complex positive feature [Undersea Feature]
MTU	mountain	a well-delineated subdivision of a large and complex positive feature [Undersea Feature]
MUS	museum	a building where objects of permanent interest in one or more of the arts and sciences are preserved and exhibited
MVA	maneuver area	a tract of land where military field exercises are carried out
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NKM	meander neck	a narrow strip of land between the two limbs of a meander loop at its narrowest point
NOV	novitiate	a religious house or school where novices are trained
NRWS	narrows	a navigable narrow part of a bay, strait, river, etc.
NSY	nursery(-ies)	a place where plants are propagated for transplanting or grafting
NTK	nunatak	a rock or mountain peak protruding through glacial ice
NTKS	nunataks	rocks or mountain peaks protruding through glacial ice
NVB	naval base	an area used to store supplies, provide barracks for troops and naval personnel, a port for naval vessels, and from which operations are initiated
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OAS	oasis(-es)	an area in a desert made productive by the availability of water
OBPT	observation point	a wildlife or scenic observation point
OBS	observatory	a facility equipped for observation of atmospheric or space phenomena
OBSR	radio observatory	a facility equipped with an array of antennae for receiving radio waves from space
OCH	orchard(s)	a planting of fruit or nut trees
OCN	ocean	one of the major divisions of the vast expanse of salt water covering part of the earth
OILF	oilfield	an area containing a subterranean store of petroleum of economic value
OILJ	oil pipeline junction	a section of an oil pipeline where two or more pipes join together
OILP	oil pipeline	a pipeline used for transporting oil
OILQ	abandoned oil well
OILR	oil refinery	a facility for converting crude oil into refined petroleum products
OILT	tank farm	a tract of land occupied by large, cylindrical, metal tanks in which oil or liquid petrochemicals are stored
OILW	oil well	a well from which oil may be pumped
OVF	overfalls	an area of breaking waves caused by the meeting of currents or by waves moving against the current
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PAL	palace	a large stately house, often a royal or presidential residence
PAN	pan	a near-level shallow, natural depression or basin, usually containing an intermittent lake, pond, or pool
PANS	pans	a near-level shallow, natural depression or basin, usually containing an intermittent lake, pond, or pool
PASS	pass	a break in a mountain range or other high obstruction, used for transportation from one side to the other
PCL	political entity
PCLD	dependent political entity
PCLF	freely associated state
PCLI	independent political entity
PCLIX	section of independent political entity
PCLS	semi-independent political entity
PEAT	peat cutting area	an area where peat is harvested
PEN	peninsula	an elongate area of land projecting into a body of water and nearly surrounded by water
PENX	section of peninsula
PGDA	pagoda	a tower-like storied structure, usually a Buddhist shrine
PIER	pier	a structure built out into navigable water on piles providing berthing for ships and recreation
PK	peak	a pointed elevation atop a mountain, ridge, or other hypsographic feature
PKLT	parking lot	an area used for parking vehicles
PKS	peaks	pointed elevations atop a mountain, ridge, or other hypsographic features
PKSU	peaks	prominent elevations, part of a larger feature, either pointed or of very limited extent across the summit [Undersea Feature]
PKU	peak	a prominent elevation, part of a larger feature, either pointed or of very limited extent across the summit [Undersea Feature]
PLAT	plateau	an elevated plain with steep slopes on one or more sides, and often with incised streams
PLATX	section of plateau
PLDR	polder	an area reclaimed from the sea by diking and draining
PLFU	platform	a flat or gently sloping underwater surface extending seaward from the shore [Undersea Feature]
PLN	plain(s)	an extensive area of comparatively level to gently undulating land, lacking surface irregularities, and usually adjacent to a higher area
PLNU	plain	a flat, gently sloping or nearly level region [Undersea Feature]
PLNX	section of plain
PLTU	plateau	a comparatively flat-topped feature of considerable extent, dropping off abruptly on one or more sides [Undersea Feature]
PMPO	oil pumping station	a facility for pumping oil through a pipeline
PMPW	water pumping station	a facility for pumping water from a major well or through a pipeline
PND	pond	a small standing waterbody
PNDI	intermittent pond
PNDN	salt pond	a small standing body of salt water often in a marsh or swamp, usually along a seacoast
PNDNI	intermittent salt pond(s)
PNDS	ponds	small standing waterbodies
PNDSF	fishponds	the ponds or enclosures in which fish are kept or raised
PNDSI	intermittent ponds
PNDSN	salt ponds	small standing bodies of salt water often in a marsh or swamp, usually along a seacoast
PNLU	pinnacle	a high tower or spire-shaped pillar of rock or coral, alone or cresting a summit [Undersea Feature]
PO	post office	a public building in which mail is received, sorted and distributed
POOL	pool(s)	a small and comparatively still, deep part of a larger body of water such as a stream or harbor; or a small body of standing water
POOLI	intermittent pool
PP	police post	a building in which police are stationed
PPL	populated place	a city, town, village, or other agglomeration of buildings where people live and work
PPLA	seat of a first-order administrative division	seat of a first-order administrative division (PPLC takes precedence over PPLA)
PPLC	capital of a political entity
PPLL	populated locality	an area similar to a locality but with a small group of dwellings or other buildings
PPLQ	abandoned populated place
PPLR	religious populated place	a populated place whose population is largely engaged in religious occupations
PPLS	populated places	cities, towns, villages, or other agglomerations of buildings where people live and work
PPLW	destroyed populated place	a village, town or city destroyed by a natural disaster, or by war
PPLX	section of populated place
PPQ	abandoned police post
PRK	park	an area, often of forested land, maintained as a place of beauty, or for recreation
PRKGT	park gate	a controlled access to a park
PRKHQ	park headquarters	a park administrative facility
PRMN	promenade	a place for public walking, usually along a beach front
PRN	prison	a facility for confining prisoners
PRNJ	reformatory	a facility for confining, training, and reforming young law offenders
PRNQ	abandoned prison
PROM	promontory(-ies)	a bluff or prominent hill overlooking or projecting into a lowland
PRSH	parish	an ecclesiastical district
PRT	port	a place provided with terminal and transfer facilities for loading and discharging waterborne cargo or passengers, usually located in a harbor
PRVU	province	a region identifiable by a group of similar physiographic features whose characteristics are markedly in contrast with surrounding areas [Undersea Feature]
PS	power station	a facility for generating electric power
PSH	hydroelectric power station	a building where electricity is generated from water power
PSTB	border post	a post or station at an international boundary for the regulation of movement of people and goods
PSTC	customs post	a building at an international boundary where customs and duties are paid on goods
PSTP	patrol post	a post from which patrols are sent out
PT	point	a tapering piece of land projecting into a body of water, less prominent than a cape
PTGE	portage	a place where boats, goods, etc., are carried overland between navigable waters
PTS	points	tapering pieces of land projecting into a body of water, less prominent than a cape
PYR	pyramid	an ancient massive structure of square ground plan with four triangular faces meeting at a point and used for enclosing tombs
PYRS	pyramids	ancient massive structures of square ground plan with four triangular faces meeting at a point and used for enclosing tombs
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QCKS	quicksand	an area where loose sand with water moving through it may become unstable when heavy objects are placed at the surface, causing them to sink
QUAY	quay	a structure of solid construction along a shore or bank which provides berthing for ships and which generally provides cargo handling facilities
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RAVU	ravine	a small canyon [Undersea Feature]
RCH	reach	a straight section of a navigable stream or channel between two bends
RD	road	an open way with improved surface for transportation of animals, people and vehicles
RDA	ancient road	the remains of a road used by ancient cultures
RDB	road bend	a conspicuously curved or bent section of a road
RDCUT	road cut	an excavation cut through a hill or ridge for a road
RDGB	beach ridge	a ridge of sand just inland and parallel to the beach, usually in series
RDGE	ridge(s)	a long narrow elevation with steep sides, and a more or less continuous crest
RDGG	icecap ridge	a linear elevation on an icecap
RDGU	ridge	a long narrow elevation with steep sides [Undersea Feature]
RDJCT	road junction	a place where two or more roads join
RDST	roadstead	an open anchorage affording less protection than a harbor
RDSU	ridges	long narrow elevations with steep sides [Undersea Feature]
RECG	golf course	a recreation field where golf is played
RECR	racetrack	a track where races are held
REG	stony desert	a desert plain characterized by a surface veneer of gravel and stones
REP	republic
RES	reserve	a tract of public land reserved for future use or restricted as to use
RESA	agricultural reserve	a tract of land reserved for agricultural reclamation and/or development
RESF	forest reserve	a forested area set aside for preservation or controlled use of species or products
RESH	hunting reserve	a tract of land used primarily for hunting
RESN	nature reserve	an area reserved for the maintenance of a natural habitat
RESP	palm tree reserve	an area of palm trees where use is controlled
RESV	reservation	a tract of land set aside for aboriginal, tribal, or native populations
RESW	wildlife reserve	a tract of public land reserved for the preservation of wildlife
RF	reef(s)	a surface-navigation hazard composed of consolidated material
RFC	coral reef(s)	a surface-navigation hazard composed of coral
RFSU	reefs	surface-navigation hazards composed of consolidated material [Undersea Feature, less than 20m deep]
RFU	reef	a surface-navigation hazard composed of consolidated material [Undersea Feature, less than 20m deep]
RFX	section of reef
RGN	region	an area distinguished by one or more observable physical or cultural characteristics
RGNE	economic region	a region of a country established for economic development or for statistical purposes
RGNL	lake region	a tract of land distinguished by numerous lakes
RHSE	resthouse	a structure maintained for the rest and shelter of travelers
RISU	rise	a broad elevation that rises gently, and generally smoothly, from the sea floor [Undersea Feature]
RJCT	railroad junction	a place where two or more railroad tracks join
RK	rock	a conspicuous, isolated rocky mass
RKFL	rockfall	an irregular mass of fallen rock at the base of a cliff or steep slope
RKRY	rookery	the breeding place of a colony of birds or seals
RKS	rocks	conspicuous, isolated rocky masses
RLG	religious site	an ancient site of significant religious importance
RLGR	retreat	a place of temporary seclusion, especially for religious groups
RMPU	ramp	a gentle slope connecting areas of different elevations [Undersea Feature]
RNCH	ranch(es)	a large farm specializing in extensive grazing of livestock
RNGA	artillery range	a tract of land used for artillery firing practice
RNGU	range	a series of associated ridges or seamounts [Undersea Feature]
RPDS	rapids	a turbulent section of a stream associated with a steep, irregular stream bed
RR	railroad	a permanent twin steel-rail track on which freight and passenger cars move long distances
RRQ	abandoned railroad
RSD	railroad siding	a short track parallel to and joining the main track
RSGNL	railroad signal	a signal at the entrance of a particular section of track governing the movement of trains^M
RSRT	resort	a specialized facility for vacation, health, or participation sports activities
RSTN	railroad station	a facility comprising ticket office, platforms, etc. for loading and unloading train passengers and freight
RSTNQ	abandoned railroad station
RSTP	railroad stop	a place lacking station facilities where trains stop to pick up and unload passengers and freight
RSTPQ	abandoned railroad stop
RSV	reservoir(s)	an artificial pond or lake
RSVI	intermittent reservoir
RSVT	water tank	a contained pool or tank of water at, below, or above ground level
RTE	caravan route	the route taken by caravans
RUIN	ruin(s)	a destroyed or decayed structure which is no longer functional
RVN	ravine(s)	a small, narrow, deep, steep-sided stream channel, smaller than a gorge
RYD	railroad yard	a system of tracks used for the making upof trains, and switching and storing freight cars
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SALT	salt area	a shallow basin or flat where salt accumulates after periodic inundation
SAND	sand area	a tract of land covered with sand
SBED	dry stream bed	a channel formerly containing the water of a stream
SBKH	sabkha(s)	a salt flat or salt encrusted plain subject to periodic inundation from flooding or high tides
SCH	school

NGA GeoNet Designations: Their Codes and Definitions

Index sorted by designation codes

[ A ] [ B ] [ C ] [ D ] [ E ] [ F ] [ G ] [ H ] [ I ] [ J ] [ K ] [ L ] [ M ] [ N ] [ O ] [ P ] [ Q ] [ R ] [ S ] [ T ] [ U ] [ V ] [ W ] [ X ] [ Y ] [ Z ]

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