Generally a star is a capital city, and a "dot" is a city.
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a capital
cities
capitol
capitol
A black dot on a map typically means a city, town, recognized place, or neighborhood. Usually, the larger the dot, the more populous the place.
city
A black dot on a map can mean either a town or city. HTH! ;) (hope this helps)
A black dot on a map can indicate a point of interest, a specific location, or a landmark. It is commonly used to highlight a notable feature or place on the map.
The meaning of symbols on a map are stated in the legend for that map which will be attached to it or printed in one corner of the map.
To check what it is on a map check the legend of the map. It'll explain if not just ignore it.