English Reference

Word

GPS

Phoneticsgps

/ˈɡipiˈɛs/

Definitions

01the navigation system

A2 · Computing

n. Stands for Global Positioning System. A system of satellites that helps you find your exact position on Earth.

n. Abbreviation for Global Positioning System. A network of satellites and receiving devices used to determine the precise location of something on Earth.

“The pilot used the GPS to stay on course during the long flight.”

“Modern agriculture relies heavily on the GPS to guide automated machinery across vast fields with centimetre-level precision.”

Usage

Usually used with 'the' when referring to the system as a whole.

Synonyms

satellite navigationsatnav

02a physical device

A2

n. a small electronic device or a phone app that shows you maps and directions.

n. A physical receiver or software application that processes satellite signals to provide navigation data.

“I bought a new GPS for my car because my old one was too slow.”

“The hiker checked his handheld GPS to ensure he hadn't strayed from the marked trail in the dense fog.”

Usage

Often used as a countable noun when referring to the device itself.

03to track or find

B2

v. to find the position of someone or something using satellite technology.

v. To determine or track the geographic location of an object or person using a global positioning system.

“The company can GPS their delivery trucks to see where they are.”

“Logistics firms now GPS every container in real-time to provide customers with accurate arrival estimates.”

Informal

Usage

Transitive verb; takes a direct object.

Synonyms

This entry

Level
A2 · Elementary
Frequency
Common
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/gps

English Reference