Definition of surveyor

The word "surveyor" has its origins in the Latin word "survēre," which means "to see" or "to survey." This Latin term was later adopted into Middle English as "surveyen" or "surveour." In the 14th century, a surveyor referred to someone who conducted a visual examination or inspection, often to assess land or property for taxation or other purposes. Over time, the term came to specifically refer to individuals who measured, mapped, and assessed land boundaries, territories, and features, such as engineers, cartographers, and land agents. In many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the UK, the term "surveyor" is used to describe a professional who performs these functions, often with specialized training and certifications.