v. & n.
v.tr. 1 take or present a general view of. 2 examine the condition of (a building etc.). 3 determine the boundaries, extent, ownership, etc., of (a district etc.).
n. 1 a general view or consideration of something. 2 a the act of surveying property. b the result or findings of this, esp. in a written report. 3 an inspection or investigation. 4 a map or plan made by surveying an area. 5 a department carrying out the surveying of land.
[ ME f. AF survei(e)r, OF so(u)rveeir (pres. stem survey-) f. med.L supervidere (as SUPER-, videre see) ]