English · Word Candidate

atlas

/ˈætləs/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: atlases · atlantes · atlasses

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A bound collection of maps often including tables, illustrations or other text.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A bound collection of tables, illustrations, etc. on any given subject.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

A rich satin fabric.

Noun

Examples

I saw ye Taffaties and Atlasses in ye warehouse, and gave directions concerning their severall colours and stripes, ordering Mr. Charnock to use his best endeavours to encrease their quantity; […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A particular model or individual specimen of the Atlas missile and launch vehicle line.

NounRegister: US

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “atlas” mean?

A bound collection of maps often including tables, illustrations or other text.

Is “atlas” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.