Compass

Quick meaning: Compass is a noun meaning A magnetic or electronic device used to determine the cardinal directions (usually magnetic or true north).

Meaning

A magnetic or electronic device used to determine the cardinal directions (usually magnetic or true north).

More Meanings

1. A pair of compasses (a device used to draw circular arcs and transfer length measurements).
2. (music) The range of notes of a musical instrument or voice.
3. Moderate bounds, limits of truth; moderation; due limits; used with within.
4. (formal) Synonym of scope.
5. (obsolete) A space within limits; an area.
6. (obsolete) An enclosing limit; a boundary, a circumference.
7. (obsolete) Range, reach.

Example Sentences

to fix one foot of their compass wherever they please

You would sound me from my lowest note to the top of my compass.

[H]ow many Seas to our fore-fathers impaſſable, for want of the Compaſſe?

a glance at his compass would have shown him that a northerly course instead of an easterly could not be right

Word Forms

• compasses
• compassing
• compassed

Synonyms for compass

Depending on context, synonyms include encircle, environ, surround, cover, traverse, accomplish.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include orbit, range, dig, circumnavigate, ambit, scope.

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