Binnacle: meaning, definitions and examples
๐งญ
binnacle
[ หbษชnษkl ]
nautical instrument
A binnacle is a sturdy, often wooden or metal structure that houses a ship's compass and provides protection from the elements. It typically includes a glass enclosure to shield the compass from water and other environmental factors while allowing for visibility.
Synonyms
compass housing, compass stand.
Examples of usage
- The captain glanced at the binnacle to check the ship's heading.
- The old binnacle on the deck was rusted but still functional.
- During the storm, the binnacle's cover helped keep the compass dry.
Translations
Translations of the word "binnacle" in other languages:
๐ต๐น bainha
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฌเคฟเคจเฅเคเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช Binnacle
๐ฎ๐ฉ binnacle
๐บ๐ฆ ะฑัะฝะพะบะปั
๐ต๐ฑ binnacle
๐ฏ๐ต ใใใฏใซ
๐ซ๐ท binnacle
๐ช๐ธ binnacle
๐น๐ท binnacle
๐ฐ๐ท ๋น๋ํด
๐ธ๐ฆ ุจููุงูู
๐จ๐ฟ binnacle
๐ธ๐ฐ binnacle
๐จ๐ณ ่ตๆบๆถ
๐ธ๐ฎ binnacle
๐ฎ๐ธ binnacle
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฑะธะฝะฐะบะป
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ binnacle
๐ฒ๐ฝ binnacle
Etymology
The word 'binnacle' originates from the Latin term 'binnaculum', which referred to a small, sheltered spot. The term evolved through Old French 'binnacle' before making its way into English in the late 15th century. Historically, the binnacle has played a crucial role in naval navigation, serving not just as a protective case for the compass but also ensuring that navigators had reliable tools to determine their course. Its design has evolved over centuries, reflecting advancements in shipbuilding as well as changes in nautical technology. Today, while modern electronics have supplemented traditional compasses, the binnacle remains an iconic element of maritime culture.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #35,535, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.
- ...
- 35532 aggrandizing
- 35533 sledging
- 35534 gentil
- 35535 binnacle
- 35536 xerographic
- 35537 clunk
- 35538 reforested
- ...