compass

(kŭmˈpəs, kŏmˈ-)

1. a. A device used to determine geographic direction, usually consisting of a magnetic needle or needles horizontally mounted or suspended and free to pivot until aligned with the earth's magnetic field.
   b. Another device, such as a radio compass or a gyrocompass, used for determining geographic direction.
2. A V-shaped device for describing circles or circular arcs and for taking measurements, consisting of a pair of rigid, end-hinged legs, one of which is equipped with a pen, pencil, or other marker and the other with a sharp point providing a pivot about which the drawing leg is turned. Also called pair of compasses.
3. a. An enclosing line or boundary; a circumference: outside the compass of the fence. See Synonyms at circumference.
   b. A restricted space or area: four huge crates within the compass of the elevator.
   c. Range or scope, as of understanding, perception, or authority: “Lacking a coherent intellectual and moral commitment, [he] was forced to find his compass in personal experience” (Doris Kearns Goodwin). See Synonyms at range.
4. Music See range.

1. To make a circuit of; circle: The sailboat compassed the island.
2. To surround; encircle. See Synonyms at surround.
3. To understand; comprehend.
4. To succeed in carrying out; accomplish. See Synonyms at reach.
5. To scheme; plot.

1. Forming a curved configuration.
2. Semicircular. Used of bow windows.

Related Forms:

• comˈpass·a·ble adjective