Navigator: meaning, definitions and examples

A person responsible for planning and directing the course of a ship or aircraft, especially important in exploratory missions and long voyages.

• The navigator checked the maps and set the course for the next leg of the journey.
• On older ships, the navigator had to rely on the stars to plot their path.

A person who operates the controls of an aircraft, responsible for flying and ensuring the safety of passengers. Also used in maritime contexts for individuals who guide ships through difficult waters.

• The pilot announced that we would be landing in 15 minutes.
• A harbor pilot boarded the ship to guide it through the narrow channel.

A second pilot who assists the main pilot in operating an aircraft, often taking over duties like navigation, communication, or flying the plane when the main pilot is resting.

• The co-pilot took control of the plane while the pilot reviewed the weather updates.
• During long flights, the co-pilot helps in managing the workload and ensures safe operation.

A person who steers a ship or boat, particularly focusing on the physical task of steering rather than navigation or overall command.

• The helmsman kept the ship on course despite the rough seas.
• In old sailing ships, the helmsman used a large wooden wheel to steer.

Refers to an individual navigating or exploring, and sometimes to a tool aiding in navigation.

• He was an experienced navigator, familiar with the city's layout.
• She used the navigator on her phone to find the quickest route.

Refers to software or application used to access and view websites on the internet.

• She opened her browser to check the latest news.
• Popular browsers include Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.

A specific tool or service that helps users find information on the internet by indexing websites and returning relevant results.

• Google is the most widely used search engine.
• She used a search engine to find recipes for tonight's dinner.

Appropriate when referring to someone who plans and directs the route or course of a journey, especially by using maps or instruments. Often used in modern contexts involving navigation devices or individuals guiding through travel.

• The navigator used the GPS to chart a course through the city.
• In the plane, the navigator was responsible for making sure they didn't stray off course.

Ideal when talking about someone who travels into unknown or unfamiliar areas to find out more about them. Often associated with historical figures or adventurous individuals who discover new places.

• The explorer ventured deep into the Amazon rainforest.
• Many explorers from Europe set out to discover new lands in the 15th century.

Best suited for situations where someone is among the first to do something new or go into a new area, often paving the way for others to follow. Can be used both literally (settling new lands) and figuratively (innovating in a field).

• She was a pioneer in the field of genetic research.
• The pioneers settled the western territories of the United States in the 19th century.