Word Direct Answers

What does "atlas" mean?

Atlas: (Anat.) The first vertebra of the neck, articulating immediately with the skull, thus sustaining the globe of the head, whence the name.

Additional senses

  1. 2.A collection of maps in a volume; -- Note: supposed to be so called from a picture of Atlas supporting the world, prefixed to some collections. This name is said to have been first used by Mercator, the celebrated geographer, in the 16th century. Note: 4. A volume of plates illustrating any subject.
  2. 3.A work in which subjects are exhibited in a tabular from or arrangement; as, an historical atlas.
  3. 4.A large, square folio, resembling a volume of maps; -- called also atlas folio.
  4. 5.A drawing paper of large size. See under Paper, n. Atlas powder, a nitroglycerin blasting compound of pasty consistency and great explosive power.
  5. 6.A rich kind of satin manufactured in India. Brande & C.

Sources