Relating to the geometry of curved surfaces: Geodetic theories, techniques, or results of geodesy utilize the precise measurement of the Earth's surface or of points on its rounded surface.

The line of shortest distance between any two points on a mathematically defined surface: Specifically, a geodesic line is a line on the surface of the Earth, a line of double curvature which usually lies between the two normal section lines determined by the two points.

The branch of geodesy (study of the size and shape of the Earth): Geodetic astronomy utilizes astronomical observations to extract geodetic information (precise measurement of the Earth's surface or of points on its surface).

A system of horizontal or vertical control stations: Geodetic control structures have been established and adjusted by geodetic methods in which the shape and size of the Earth (or the geoid) have been considered in computing positions.

The latitude and longitude of a point on the Earth's surface: Geodetic coordinates are determined by the geodetic vertical (normal to the specified spheroid).

Geodetic coordinates indicate a location on Earth defined by its latitude, longitude and elevation.

Geodetic coordinates refer to the quantities of latitude and longitude which define the position of a point on the surface of the Earth with respect to the reference spheroid.

A global datum reference for expressing the exact position of places on Earth: The geodetic datum consists of five quantities: the latitude and longitude of an initial point, the azimuth of a line from this point, and two constants necessary to define the terrestrial spheroid.

Horizontal datum is used for describing a point on the Earth's surface, in latitude and longitude or another coordinate system. Vertical datum measures elevations or depths.

The science or technique of measuring gravitational acceleration: The worldwide use of geodetic gravimetry is important for determining the size and shape of the Earth.

A geometric surface or a solid figure shaped like an oval: A geodetic height refers to any section through an ellipsoid which is either an ellipse (a two-dimensional shape like a stretched circle with slightly longer flatter sides) or a circle.

Spirit leveling (device or level for determining a true horizontal or vertical reference point) of a high order of accuracy, usually extended over large areas, to furnish accurate vertical control in the vertical dimension for all surveying and mapping operations: Geodetic leveling follows the geoid and its associated irregular level surfaces rather than any mathematically determined spheroid or ellipsoid and associated regular level surfaces.

In cartography or maps, the position of a point on the surface of the Earth expressed in terms of geodetic latitude and geodetic longitude: Mr. Globe asked his students to locate certain cities in terns of their geodetic positions.

In physics, the movement of the axis of a spinning gyro in orbit around a heavenly body which is caused by the curvature of space: Geodetic precession describes the curvature of spacetime, predicted by general relativity, on a vector carried along with an orbiting body.

An artificial Earth satellite used to obtain data for geodetic triangulation calculations: In space technology, a geodetic satellite is designed or launched especially for gathering data regarding the size, shape, and mass distribution (gravity) of the Earth as well as the precise positions of points or areas on its surface.

An examination of a large area of land in which corrections are made to account for the curvature of the Earth: A geodetic survey involves research in which the form and the size of this planet are considered and for which corrections are made.

A line on a spheroid or a reference ellipsoid (circular form): A graphic meridian links the points possessing the same astronomical latitude.