# compass

/ˈkəmpəs/ (US) · /kˈʌmpəs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/compass
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. navigation tool

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

- The hikers used a map and a compass to find their way through the thick forest.
- Before the advent of satellite navigation, mariners relied heavily on the magnetic compass to maintain a steady course across open waters.

### 2. drawing tool

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

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

### 3. scope or range

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

- The full details of the project were beyond the compass of our small budget.
- The philosopher argued that certain metaphysical questions lie entirely beyond the compass of human understanding.

### 4. musical range

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

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

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

- The soprano had an impressive compass, reaching even the highest notes with ease.
- The composer wrote the solo specifically for the cello, taking full advantage of the instrument's wide melodic compass.

### 5. to surround

verb · CEFR C2 · Literary

to go around or surround something completely.

For teachers: to form a circle around; to encircle or encompass.

- High stone walls compassed the ancient garden, keeping it hidden from the street.
- The vast mountain range compassed the valley, creating a natural barrier that isolated the village for centuries.

## Examples

- He checked his compass to see if they were heading north.
- The hikers relied on a map and a compass after their phone batteries died in the woods.
- In the architectural studio, the student used a precision compass to draft the circular elements of the floor plan with mathematical accuracy.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.