leveling

n. [ Written also levelling. ] 1. The act or operation of making level. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Surveying) The art or operation of using a leveling instrument for finding a horizontal line, for ascertaining the differences of level between different points of the earth's surface included in a survey, for establishing grades, etc., as in finding the descent of a river, or locating a line of railroad. [ 1913 Webster ]

Leveling instrument. See Surveyor's level, under Level, n. --
Leveling staff, a graduated rod or staff used in connection with a leveling instrument for measuring differences of level between points. [ 1913 Webster ]