compass
compass Lexical Profile
compass Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A navigational instrument containing a freely suspended magnetized pointer that indicates the direction of magnetic north.
"The hikers relied on a topographic map and a compass to navigate through the dense, trackless forest."
A V-shaped instrument with two hinged arms, one ending in a sharp metal point and the other holding a pencil or pen, used for drawing circles or arcs.
"In her geometry class, she carefully adjusted the compass to construct a perfect circle with a two-inch radius."
The enclosing limits, scope, or range of a subject, concept, or physical space.
"The profound political implications of the new economic treaty fall somewhat outside the compass of this particular historical study."
• verb
To go completely around something in a circular course; to surround or encircle.
"The ancient stone walls completely compassed the medieval city, protecting it from invaders."
To grasp mentally; to fully understand or comprehend.
"It was exceedingly difficult for the students to compass the sheer, unfathomable scale of the expanding universe."
Word Nuance & Usage
When referring to the drawing instrument, British English frequently uses the plural phrasing 'a pair of compasses', whereas American English typically prefers the singular 'a compass'.
• Rhymes for compass
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'compas', borrowed from Old French 'compas' (measure, proportion), which derives from Vulgar Latin 'compassare', meaning 'to pace out' (from 'com-' meaning together + 'passus' meaning a step or pace).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.