English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word compass in English

What does compass mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

compass

US /ˈkʌm.pəs/
UK /ˈkʌm.pəs/
"compass" picture

Noun

1.

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

Example:
•
He used a compass to find his way through the forest.
•
The ship's compass helped them stay on course.
Synonym:
navigatordirection finder
2.

a pair of compasses.

Example:
•
The architect used a compass to draw a perfect circle.
•
She learned to use a compass in her geometry class.
Synonym:
dividers
3.

the range or scope of something.

Example:
•
The discussion went beyond the compass of the original topic.
•
Within the compass of human understanding, some things remain a mystery.
Synonym:
rangescopeextentboundslimits

Verb

1.

to go around (something) in a circle.

Example:
•
The ship compassed the island, searching for a safe harbor.
•
They compassed the entire city in their search for the lost artifact.
Synonym:
encirclesurroundcircumventtraverse
2.

to achieve or accomplish (something).

Example:
•
With great effort, they finally compassed their goal.
•
He hoped to compass a solution to the complex problem.
Synonym:
achieveaccomplishattainrealizeeffect
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Related Word:
compassion