Sextant: meaning, definitions and examples
๐งญ
sextant
[ หsษkstษnt ]
navigation tool
A sextant is an instrument used for navigation and for measuring the angle between an astronomical object and the horizon. It is primarily employed in maritime navigation to determine a ship's latitude and longitude by taking altitudinal readings of stars or the sun. The sextant operates on the principle of triangulation, allowing sailors to calculate their position at sea with remarkable accuracy. Historically, it has been an essential tool for explorers and navigators since the 18th century.
Synonyms
angle measuring device, marine sextant, navigational instrument
Examples of usage
- The captain used the sextant to chart their course.
- Navigators relied on the sextant for accuracy during their voyages.
- An accurate reading with a sextant can be vital for safe passage.
- He calibrated the sextant before taking his measurements.
Translations
Translations of the word "sextant" in other languages:
๐ต๐น sextante
๐ฎ๐ณ เคธเฅเคเฅเคธเคเฅเคเค
๐ฉ๐ช Sextant
๐ฎ๐ฉ sextant
๐บ๐ฆ ัะตะบัะฐะฝั
๐ต๐ฑ sextant
๐ฏ๐ต ใปใฏในใฟใณใ
๐ซ๐ท sextant
๐ช๐ธ sextante
๐น๐ท sextant
๐ฐ๐ท ์น์คํดํธ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุณูุณูุช
๐จ๐ฟ sextant
๐ธ๐ฐ sextant
๐จ๐ณ ๅ ญๅไปช
๐ธ๐ฎ sextant
๐ฎ๐ธ sextant
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะตะบััะฐะฝั
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแฅแกแขแแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ sextant
๐ฒ๐ฝ sextante
Word origin
The word 'sextant' originates from the Latin word 'sextans', which means 'a sixth part'. This reflects the device's primary function of measuring angles, specifically one-sixth of a circle, or 60 degrees. The development of the sextant as we know it began in the 18th century, building on earlier instruments such as the quadrant and the astrolabe. The sextant revolutionized navigation by allowing mariners to accurately determine their position at sea using celestial objects. Its design and mechanics were further refined over time, leading to improvements in precision and practicality. Historically, it played a pivotal role during the Age of Exploration, facilitating long-distance sea voyages and establishing trade routes across the globe.