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compass an instrument for determining direction, esp. one with a horizontal magnetic needle that rotates freely until it points to the magnetic north. [1/9 definitions]
magnetic compass an instrument that shows direction relative to the earth's magnetic field, usu. by means of a magnetic needle mounted on a pivot.
magnetic equator an imaginary line circling the earth near the equator, composed of points where a magnetic needle does not dip because the lines of magnetic force parallel the earth's surface.
magnetic mine a marine mine designed to explode when its magnetic needle responds to the mass of a nearby ship.
magnetic north the northern direction indicated by a magnetic needle, in line with the earth's magnetic pole but usu. not true north.