A to Z GIS | Explore this related guide, featuring updated terms and graphics and developed in coordination with Esri’s GIS Dictionary team.
Learn more about A to Z GIS
GIS Dictionary
Browse dictionary
offset
URL copiedShare URL
[map design, cartography]
In cartography, the displacement or movement of features so that they do not overlap when displayed at a given scale. For example, a road can be offset from a river if the symbols would otherwise overlap.
[symbology]
In symbology, the shift of the origin or insertion point of a symbol in an x and/or y direction.
[visualization techniques]
A change in or the act of changing the z-value for a surface or features in a scene by a constant amount or by using an expression. Offsets can be applied to make features draw just above a surface.