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Definition of gyroscope

gyroscope

/ˈdʒaɪ.ɹə.skoʊp/
gy · ro · scope

Adverb:gyroscopically
•
Plural:gyroscopes
•
Adjective:gyroscopic
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gyroscope Lexical Profile

gyroscope Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An electronic sensor or micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) embedded in modern digital devices that measures angular velocity and spatial orientation.

Example

"Modern smartphones use a built-in gyroscope to accurately detect when you rotate the screen from portrait to landscape mode."


2

A physical device consisting of a spinning wheel or disk mounted in a series of gimbals so that its axis can freely assume any orientation, utilized for measuring or maintaining stability and direction.

Example

"The aerospace engineers calibrated the gyroscope to ensure the satellite would maintain its precise orientation in orbit."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for gyroscope

• Rhymes for gyroscope

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1852 by French physicist Léon Foucault from Greek 'gyros' (circle or rotation) and 'skopein' (to look at or observe), originally created to visually demonstrate the rotation of the Earth.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gyroscope. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gyroscope
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