Compasses

Part of Speech

Noun (Plural)

Pronunciation

English (UK): /ˈkʌm.pəs.ɪz/

English (US): /ˈkɑːm.pəs.ɪz/

Definitions

• A drawing instrument used to create circles or arcs.
• A navigational tool used to determine direction.

Usage Examples

• The architect used compasses to draw precise circles on the blueprint.
• He always carried a pair of compasses in his geometry set.
• Compasses have been used by sailors for centuries to navigate vast oceans.

Etymology

From Middle English compas, borrowed from Old French compas, meaning "circle, boundary," derived from Latin compassare ("to measure out").

Synonyms

• Divider
• Caliper
• Navigation device

Antonyms

• Disorientation tool
• Randomizer

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈkʌm.pəs.ɪz/
• American English: /ˈkɑːm.pəs.ɪz/
• Australian English: /ˈkʌm.pəs.ɪz/

Historical Usage

Compasses have been used for navigation since ancient China and Europe, guiding explorers on land and sea.

Cultural Nuances

In Freemasonry, compasses symbolize moral boundaries and guidance. In education, they represent precision in geometry.

More Information

Modern compasses come in digital forms, assisting architects, engineers, and navigators with advanced precision and accuracy.