Definition of a Corner

For professional surveyors, terminology definitions are extremely important for doing the job correctly. Surveying is a mixture of scientific processes, therefore there is no room for ambiguity when it comes to defining the job or the terms of surveying.

The definition of a corner

A corner, in surveying terminology, is defined as the junction of two lines or surfaces that converge. This can include the corner of a building, the meeting points of two streets or the four corners of a town square, for example. Though a road, acting as a property line perhaps, might bend and turn, even to the point where a northbound road shifts markedly to the east, this does not fit the definition of a corner. No matter how sharply that road might bend, even if it bends at a perfect right angle, it is not considered a corner to a surveyor. Because it is considered one line (the road is the line) that simply varies greatly, it does not meet the definition of a corner, that is, a junction or meeting of two lines.

Proper understanding of surveyor terminology is vital for an effective surveyor. Terms such as these are fodder for land disputes that might lead to legal action, so it is imperative that applied terminology is correct. If you misinform a landowner about the boundaries of his or her property, for example, that legal action might just affect you. Ethical conduct for professional surveyors includes knowing all facets and terms of the job.