Compass (noun) Definition, Meaning & Examples

noun

an instrument for determining directions, as by means of a freely rotating magnetized needle that indicates magnetic north.
the enclosing line or limits of any area; perimeter: You can find anything you want downtown within the compass of ten square blocks.
space within limits; area; extent; range; scope: the narrow compass of the strait;the broad compass of the novel.
the total range of tones of a voice or of a musical instrument.
due or proper limits; moderate bounds: Their behavior stayed within the compass of propriety.
a passing round; circuit: the compass of a year.
an instrument for drawing or describing circles, measuring distances, etc., consisting generally of two movable, rigid legs hinged to each other at one end (usually used with pair of): to spread the legs of a compass and draw a larger circle.
Astronomy.

adjective

verb (used with object)

to go or move round; make the circuit of: It would take a week to compass his property on foot.
to extend or stretch around; hem in; surround; encircle: An old stone wall compasses their property.
to attain or achieve; accomplish; obtain: To have compassed this task in the limited time available is no mean achievement.
to contrive; plot; scheme: to compass a treacherous plan.
to make curved or circular.
to comprehend; to grasp, as with the mind: His mind could not compass the extent of the disaster.

noun

an instrument for finding direction, usually having a magnetized needle which points to magnetic north swinging freely on a pivot
an instrument used for drawing circles, measuring distances, etc, that consists of two arms, joined at one end, one arm of which serves as a pivot or stationary reference point, while the other is extended or describes a circle
limits or range
the interval between the lowest and highest note attainable by a voice or musical instrument
a circular course

verb (tr)

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