Compass: meaning, definitions and examples

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compass

 

[ หˆkสŒmpษ™s ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

navigation

A compass is an instrument used for navigation and orientation that shows direction relative to the geographic cardinal directions.

Synonyms

direction finder, magnetic compass, navigational instrument.

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Word Description / Examples
compass

Also refers to a drafting instrument used for drawing circles.

  • The architect used a compass to draw a perfect circle
direction finder

More specific term often used in contexts related to radio and technical navigation. May imply the use of radio waves or signals.

  • The aircraft's direction finder helped the pilot stay on course during the storm
magnetic compass

Refers specifically to the traditional type of compass that uses a magnetized needle to show direction. Often used in outdoor activities and maritime contexts.

  • Sailors have relied on the magnetic compass for centuries to navigate the seas
navigational instrument

A broad term that refers to any tool used for navigation, including compasses, GPS devices, and more. Often used in professional or technical settings.

  • The navigational instrument on the ship included a variety of tools such as a magnetic compass, a GPS, and an automatic direction finder

Examples of usage

  • He used a compass to find his way through the forest.
  • The sailor relied on the compass to steer the ship in the right direction.
Context #2 | Noun

moral guidance

Compass can also refer to a moral or ethical principle that guides a person's behavior or decisions.

Synonyms

ethical principle, guiding light, moral guide.

Examples of usage

  • His compassion and empathy serve as his moral compass.
  • She always follows her inner compass when making tough decisions.

Translations

Translations of the word "compass" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น bรบssola

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค•เค‚เคชเคพเคธ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Kompass

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kompas

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะบะพะผะฟะฐั

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ kompas

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚ณใƒณใƒ‘ใ‚น

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท boussole

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ brรบjula

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท pusula

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋‚˜์นจ๋ฐ˜

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุจูˆุตู„ุฉ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kompas

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ kompas

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆŒ‡ๅ—้’ˆ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ kompas

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ รกttaviti

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะบะพะผะฟะฐั

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ™แƒแƒ›แƒžแƒแƒกแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kompas

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ brรบjula

Etymology

The word 'compass' originated from the Latin word 'circum' meaning 'around' and 'passus' meaning 'step'. The concept of a compass as a navigational tool dates back to ancient China, where the magnetic compass was invented. Over time, the compass became essential for navigation at sea and on land, revolutionizing exploration and trade.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,483 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.