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compass

com·pass

compass

 
 
pronunciation:
kuhm ps [or] kam ps
features:
Word Combinations (noun), Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
definition 1: an instrument for showing direction. A typical compass has a moving magnetic needle that points north.
Sailors relied on a compass to find their way across the ocean.
 
definition 2: (often plural) an instrument with two hinged legs that is used for drawing circles. One leg ends in a point and the other holds a pencil.
Last night I used a compass for my math homework.
 
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derivation: compassable (adj.)
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  geology, hunt