mapsets

Mapset is a term used in several domains to describe a collection of maps or map-related items. In mathematics and related fields, a map is a function between sets. A mapset in this sense is often used informally to denote a set of maps, i.e., a function space. For example, the set of all functions from a set X to a set Y is the mapset Hom(X,Y) or Y^X. Such a collection can carry additional structure depending on the context, such as a vector space structure or categorical properties.

In geographic information systems and cartography, a mapset can refer to a package or project that contains multiple map layers or maps assembled for a specific purpose. It serves as a convenient unit for organizing layers, projections, symbols, and related metadata within a mapping workflow.

In gaming and digital media communities, a mapset often denotes a bundled collection of content organized by a creator. For example, in rhythm games such as osu!, a mapset is a single collection of beatmaps tied together by a common creator or theme, published for players to download and play as a group.

Because mapset does not have a single universally accepted definition, its meaning depends on the discipline and context. When using the term, it is helpful to specify the domain and what is included in the set, such as “the mapset of functions from X to Y” or “a mapset of five beatmaps.”

See also: function, mapping, hom-set, Map, beatmap.