Triangulate: meaning, definitions and examples

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triangulate

[traɪˈæŋɡjʊleɪt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

mathematics, navigation

To triangulate means to determine the location or position of something by measuring angles from known points. This technique is widely used in various fields, including navigation, surveying, and even in some branches of mathematics. By forming a triangle with known points, one can calculate unknown distances or positions. Triangulation can also refer to the process of gathering information from multiple sources to come to a conclusion or make a decision.

Synonyms

determine, locate, measure.

Examples of usage

We need to triangulate our position on the map.
They triangulated the source of the signal.
The researchers triangulated data from several studies.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'triangulate' comes from the Latin word 'triangulum', meaning 'triangle' or 'three angles'.
The prefix 'tri-' means 'three', which relates directly to the number of points used in triangulation.
The first known use of the word in English dates back to the mid-19th century, when surveying became more scientific.

Science

Triangulation is a basic principle used in navigation and surveying to accurately determine locations on maps.
In physics, triangulation can help scientists pinpoint the location of seismic waves during an earthquake.
Astronomers use triangulation to measure the distance of stars by observing them from different points on Earth’s orbit.

Technology

GPS technology uses a form of triangulation to calculate your exact location by communicating with three or more satellites.
In computer vision, triangulation helps software determine the spatial relationships and motions in images and videos.
Mobile phones utilize triangulation by connecting with three cell phone towers to improve location accuracy.

Mathematics

In geometry, triangulation is a method of dividing a complex polygon into simpler triangles to calculate area and other properties.
Triangulation is also used in trigonometry, where angles and sides of triangles are studied to solve for unknown values.
The principle of triangulation is the foundation of many algorithms in computer graphics for rendering images.

Navigation and Exploration

Historically, sailors used triangulation to determine their position at sea using stars and landmarks.
In military operations, triangulation is used for targeting by determining the location of an enemy based on sound or sight from multiple observers.
Triangulation played a key role during the Age of Exploration, allowing explorers to chart new territories accurately.