—v.tr.
1 take or present a general view of.
2 examine the condition of (a building etc.).
3 determine the boundaries, extent, ownership, etc., of (a district etc.).
—n.
1 a general view or consideration of something.
2 a the act of surveying property. b the result or findings of this, esp. in a written report.
3 an inspection or investigation.
4 a map or plan made by surveying an area.
5 a department carrying out the surveying of land.
Etymology: ME f. AF survei(e)r, OF so(u)rveeir (pres. stem survey-) f. med.L supervidere (as SUPER-, videre see)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.