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| Designation Code | Designation | Designation Definition |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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| JTY | jetty | a structure built out into the water at a river mouth or harbor entrance to regulate currents and silting |
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| 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 | building(s) where instruction in one or more branches of knowledge takes place |
| SCHA | agricultural school | a school with a curriculum focused on agriculture |
| SCHC | college | the grounds and buildings of an institution of higher learning |
| SCHM | military school | a school at which military science forms the core of the curriculum |
| SCHN | maritime school | a school at which maritime sciences form the core of the curriculum |
| SCNU | seachannel | a continuously sloping, elongated depression commonly found in fans or plains and customarily bordered by levees on one or two sides [Undersea Feature] |
| SCRB | scrubland | an area of low trees, bushes, and shrubs stunted by some environmental limitation |
| SCRP | escarpment | a long line of cliffs or steep slopes separating level surfaces above and below |
| SCSU | seachannels | continuously sloping, elongated depressions commonly found in fans or plains and customarily bordered by levees on one or two sides [Undersea Feature] |
| SD | sound | a long arm of the sea forming a channel between the mainland and an island or islands; or connecting two larger bodies of water |
| SDL | saddle | a broad, open pass crossing a ridge or between hills or mountains |
| SDLU | saddle | a low part, resembling in shape a saddle, in a ridge or between contiguous seamounts [Undersea Feature] |
| SEA | sea | a large body of salt water more or less confined by continuous land or chains of islands forming a subdivision of an ocean |
| SHFU | shelf | a zone adjacent to a continent (or around an island) that extends from the low water line to a depth at which there is usually a marked increase of slope towards oceanic depths [Undersea Feature] |
| SHLU | shoal | a surface-navigation hazard composed of unconsolidated material [Undersea Feature, less than 20m deep] |
| SHOL | shoal(s) | a surface-navigation hazard composed of unconsolidated material |
| SHOR | shore | a narrow zone bordering a waterbody which covers and uncovers at high and low water, respectively |
| SHPF | sheepfold | a fence or wall enclosure for sheep and other small herd animals |
| SHRN | shrine | a structure or place memorializing a person or religious concept |
| SHSE | storehouse | a building for storing goods, especially provisions |
| SHSU | shoals | surface-navigation hazards composed of unconsolidated material [Undersea Feature, less than 20m deep] |
| SHVU | shelf valley | a valley on the shelf, generally the shoreward extension of a canyon [Undersea Feature] |
| SILL | sill | the low part of an underwater gap or saddle separating basins, including a similar feature at the mouth of a fjord |
| SILU | sill | the low part of a gap or saddle separating basins [Undersea Feature] |
| SINK | sinkhole | a small crater-shape depression in a karst area |
| SLCE | sluice | a conduit or passage for carrying off surplus water from a waterbody, usually regulated by means of a sluice gate |
| SLID | slide | a mound of earth material, at the base of a slope and the associated scoured area |
| SLP | slope(s) | a surface with a relatively uniform slope angle |
| SLPU | slope | the slope seaward from the shelf edge to the beginning of a continental rise or the point where there is a general reduction in slope [Undersea Feature] |
| SMSU | seamounts | elevations rising generally more than 1,000 meters and of limited extent across the summit [Undersea Feature] |
| SMU | seamount | an elevation rising generally more than 1,000 meters and of limited extent across the summit [Undersea Feature] |
| SNOW | snowfield | an area of permanent snow and ice forming the accumulation area of a glacier |
| SNTR | sanitarium | a facility where victims of physical or mental disorders are treated |
| SPA | spa | a resort area usually developed around a medicinal spring |
| SPIT | spit | a narrow, straight or curved continuation of a beach into a waterbody |
| SPLY | spillway | a passage or outlet through which surplus water flows over, around or through a dam |
| SPNG | spring(s) | a place where ground water flows naturally out of the ground |
| SPNS | sulphur spring(s) | a place where sulphur ground water flows naturally out of the ground |
| SPNT | hot spring(s) | a place where hot ground water flows naturally out of the ground |
| SPRU | spur | a subordinate elevation, ridge, or rise projecting outward from a larger feature [Undersea Feature] |
| SPUR | spur(s) | a subordinate ridge projecting outward from a hill, mountain or other elevation |
| SQR | square | a broad, open, public area near the center of a town or city |
| ST | street | a paved urban thoroughfare |
| STBL | stable | a building for the shelter and feeding of farm animals, especially horses |
| STDM | stadium | a structure with an enclosure for athletic games with tiers of seats for spectators |
| STKR | stock route | a route taken by livestock herds |
| STM | stream | a body of running water moving to a lower level in a channel on land |
| STMA | anabranch | a diverging branch flowing out of a main stream and rejoining it downstream |
| STMB | stream bend | a conspicuously curved or bent segment of a stream |
| STMC | canalized stream | a stream that has been substantially ditched, diked, or straightened |
| STMD | distributary(-ies) | a branch which flows away from the main stream, as in a delta or irrigation canal |
| STMH | headwaters | the source and upper part of a stream, including the upper drainage basin |
| STMI | intermittent stream | |
| STMIX | section of intermittent stream | |
| STMM | stream mouth(s) | a place where a stream discharges into a lagoon, lake, or the sea |
| STMQ | abandoned watercourse | a former stream or distributary no longer carrying flowing water, but still evident due to lakes, wetland, topographic or vegetation patterns |
| STMS | streams | bodies of running water moving to a lower level in a channel on land |
| STMSB | lost river | a surface stream that disappears into an underground channel, or dries up in an arid area |
| STMX | section of stream | |
| STNB | scientific research base | a scientific facility used as a base from which research is carried out or monitored |
| STNC | coast guard station | a facility from which the coast is guarded by armed vessels |
| STNE | experiment station | a facility for carrying out experiments |
| STNF | forest station | a collection of buildings and facilities for carrying out forest management |
| STNI | inspection station | a station at which vehicles, goods, and people are inspected |
| STNM | meteorological station | a station at which weather elements are recorded |
| STNR | radio station | a facility for producing and transmitting information by radio waves |
| STNS | satellite station | a facility for tracking and communicating with orbiting satellites |
| STNW | whaling station | a facility for butchering whales and processing train oil |
| STPS | steps | stones or slabs placed for ease in ascending or descending a steep slope |
| STRT | strait | a relatively narrow waterway, usually narrower and less extensive than a sound, connecting two larger bodies of water |
| SWMP | swamp | a wetland dominated by tree vegetation |
| SYSI | irrigation system | a network of ditches and one or more of the following elements: water supply, reservoir, canal, pump, well, drain, etc. |
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| TAL | talus slope | a steep concave slope formed by an accumulation of loose rock fragments at the base of a cliff or steep slope |
| TERR | territory | |
| TERU | terrace | a relatively flat horizontal or gently inclined surface, sometimes long and narrow, which is bounded by a steeper ascending slope on one side and by a steep descending slope on the opposite side [Undersea Feature] |
| TMB | tomb(s) | a structure for interring bodies |
| TMPL | temple(s) | an edifice dedicated to religious worship |
| TMSU | tablemounts (or guyots) | seamounts having a comparatively smooth, flat top [Undersea Feature] |
| TMTU | tablemount (or guyot) | a seamount having a comparatively smooth, flat top [Undersea Feature] |
| TNGU | tongue | an elongate (tongue-like) extension of a flat sea floor into an adjacent higher feature [Undersea Feature] |
| TNKD | cattle dipping tank | a small artificial pond used for immersing cattle in chemically treated water for disease control |
| TNL | tunnel | a subterranean passageway for transportation |
| TNLC | canal tunnel | a tunnel through which a canal passes |
| TNLN | natural tunnel | a cave that is open at both ends |
| TNLRD | road tunnel | a tunnel through which a road passes |
| TNLRR | railroad tunnel | a tunnel through which a railroad passes |
| TNLS | tunnels | subterranean passageways for transportation |
| TOWR | tower | a high conspicuous structure, typically much higher than its diameter |
| TRB | tribal area | a tract of land used by nomadic or other tribes |
| TREE | tree(s) | a conspicuous tree used as a landmark |
| TRGD | interdune trough(s) | a long wind swept trough between parallel longitudinal dunes |
| TRGU | trough | a long depression of the sea floor characteristically flat bottomed and steep sided, and normally shallower than a trench [Undersea Feature] |
| TRIG | triangulation station | a point on the earth whose position has been determined by triangulation |
| TRL | trail | a path, track, or route used by pedestrians, animals, or off-road vehicles |
| TRMO | oil pipeline terminal | a tank farm or loading facility at the end of an oil pipeline |
| TRNU | trench | a long, narrow, characteristically very deep and asymmetrical depression of the sea floor, with relatively steep sides [Undersea Feature] |
| TRR | terrace | a long, narrow alluvial platform bounded by steeper slopes above and below, usually overlooking a waterbody |
| TUND | tundra | a marshy, treeless, high latitude plain, dominated by mosses, lichens, and low shrub vegetation under permafrost conditions |
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| UPLD | upland | an extensive interior region of high land with low to moderate surface relief |
| USGE | United States Government Establishment | a facility operated by the United States Government in Panama |
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| VAL | valley | an elongated depression usually traversed by a stream |
| VALG | hanging valley | a valley the floor of which is notably higher than the valley or shore to which it leads; most common in areas that have been glaciated |
| VALS | valleys | elongated depressions usually traversed by a stream |
| VALU | valley | a relatively shallow, wide depression, the bottom of which usually has a continuous gradient. (This term is generally not used for features that have canyon-like characteristics for a significant portion of their extent) [Undersea Feature] |
| VALX | section of valley | |
| VETF | veterinary facility | a building or camp at which veterinary services are available |
| VIN | vineyard | a planting of grapevines |
| VINS | vineyards | plantings of grapevines |
| VLC | volcano | a conical elevation composed of volcanic materials with a crater at the top |
| VLSU | valleys | a relatively shallow, wide depression, the bottom of which usually has a continuous gradient. (This term is generally not used for features that have canyon-like characteristics for a significant portion of their extent) [Undersea Feature] |
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| WAD | wadi | a valley or ravine, bounded by relatively steep banks, which in the rainy season becomes a watercourse; found primarily in North Africa and the Middle East |
| WADB | wadi bend | a conspicuously curved or bent segment of a wadi |
| WADJ | wadi junction | a place where two or more wadies join |
| WADM | wadi mouth | the lower terminus of a wadi where it widens into an adjoining floodplain, depression, or waterbody |
| WADS | wadies | valleys or ravines, bounded by relatively steep banks, which in the rainy season become watercourses; found primarily in North Africa and the Middle East |
| WADX | section of wadi | |
| WALL | wall | a thick masonry structure, usually enclosing a field or building, or forming the side of a structure |
| WALLA | ancient wall | the remains of a linear defensive stone structure |
| WEIR | weir(s) | a small dam in a stream, designed to raise the water level or to divert stream flow through a desired channel |
| WHRF | wharf(-ves) | a structure of open rather than solid construction along a shore or a bank which provides berthing for ships and cargo-handling facilities |
| WHRL | whirlpool | a turbulent, rotating movement of water in a stream |
| WLL | well | a cylindrical hole, pit, or tunnel drilled or dug down to a depth from which water, oil, or gas can be pumped or brought to the surface |
| WLLQ | abandoned well | |
| WLLS | wells | cylindrical holes, pits, or tunnels drilled or dug down to a depth from which water, oil, or gas can be pumped or brought to the surface |
| WRCK | wreck | the site of the remains of a wrecked vessel |
| WTLD | wetland | an area subject to inundation, usually characterized by bog, marsh, or swamp vegetation |
| WTLDI | intermittent wetland | |
| WTRC | watercourse | a natural, well-defined channel produced by flowing water, or an artificial channel designed to carry flowing water |
| WTRH | waterhole(s) | a natural hole, hollow, or small depression that contains water, used by man and animals, especially in arid areas |
| WTRW | waterworks | a facility for supplying potable water through a water source and a system of pumps and filtration beds |
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| ZN | zone | |
| ZNB | buffer zone | a zone recognized as a buffer between two nations in which military presence is minimal or absent |
| ZNF | free trade zone | an area, usually a section of a port, where goods may be received and shipped free of customs duty and of most customs regulations |
| ZNL | leased zone | a tract of land leased by the United States from Panama |
| ZOO | zoo | a zoological garden or park where wild animals are kept for exhibition |
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