(hence the phrase 'orient a map' — 'orient' just means 'east'). I used to think this too, but I did some research once and it appears the origin of "orient" th

(hence the phrase 'orient a map' — 'orient' just means 'east'). I used to think this too, but I did some research once and it appears the origin of "orient" the verb is unrelated to east-printed maps, and has more to do with building your church so that the altar faces east.