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compass

n. · v.
US //ˈkəmpəs// UK //kˈʌmpəs// com·pass
  1. 1 navigation tool (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a device with a needle that always points north, used to find your way.

    an instrument containing a magnetized pointer which shows the direction of magnetic north and bearings from it.

    Example

    The hikers used a map and a compass to find their way through the thick forest.

    Example

    Before the advent of satellite navigation, mariners relied heavily on the magnetic compass to maintain a steady course across open waters.
  2. 2 drawing tool (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a V-shaped tool used for drawing perfect circles or measuring distances on a map.

    a technical drawing instrument used for inscribing circles or arcs and for measuring distances, consisting of two legs joined by a pivot.

    Example

    You will need a sharp pencil and a compass for your geometry class tomorrow.

    Example

    The architect used a precision compass to ensure the circular rotunda was perfectly centered on the blueprints.

    Usage

    Often used in the plural form 'a pair of compasses'.
    • dividers
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  1. 3 scope or range (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the limits or range of something, like what a person is able to do.

    the range, scope, or extent of something; the limits within which something can be achieved or perceived.

    Example

    The full details of the project were beyond the compass of our small budget.

    Example

    The philosopher argued that certain metaphysical questions lie entirely beyond the compass of human understanding.
  2. 4 musical range (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Music

    the range of notes that a singer or a musical instrument can play.

    the full range of notes that a particular voice or instrument is capable of producing.

    Example

    The soprano had an impressive compass, reaching even the highest notes with ease.

    Example

    The composer wrote the solo specifically for the cello, taking full advantage of the instrument's wide melodic compass.
  3. 5 to surround (v.)
    C2 Proficiency Literary

    to go around or surround something completely.

    to form a circle around; to encircle or encompass.

    Example

    High stone walls compassed the ancient garden, keeping it hidden from the street.

    Example

    The vast mountain range compassed the valley, creating a natural barrier that isolated the village for centuries.
Etymology 1

From Middle English compas (“a circle, circuit, limit, form, a mathematical instrument”), from Old French compas, from Medieval Latin compassus (“a circle, a circuit”), from Latin com- (“together”) + passus (“a pace, step, later a pass, way, route”); see pass, pace.

Etymology 2

From Middle English compassen (“to go around, make a circuit, draw a circle, contrive, intend”), from Old French compasser; from the noun; see compass as a noun.

Word family
Idioms3 entries

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