azimuth circle

American  

noun

1. a device for measuring azimuths, consisting of a graduated ring equipped with a sighting vane on each side, which fits concentrically over a compass.

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Etymology

Origin of azimuth circle

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

The iron part was hollow, so that the clock was inside, as was the azimuth circle, and thus space was saved.

From Maria Mitchell: Life, Letters, and Journals by Mitchell, Maria

A quadrant of one and a half cubits radius, and an azimuth circle of three cubits.4.

From The Martyrs of Science, or, The lives of Galileo, Tycho Brahe, and Kepler by Brewster, David, Sir

An arc of the horizon intercepted between the azimuth circle of a celestial object and the magnetic meridian.

From The Sailor's Word-Book An Alphabetical Digest of Nautical Terms, including Some More Especially Military and Scientific, but Useful to Seamen; as well as Archaisms of Early Voyagers, etc. by Belcher, Edward, Sir

After their removal to the bank building there were added to these an "altitude and azimuth circle," loaned to Mr. Mitchell by West Point Academy, and two transit instruments.

From Maria Mitchell: Life, Letters, and Journals by Mitchell, Maria

The instrument is supported on a strong tripod, fitted with levelling screws; to this tripod is fixed the azimuth circle and a long vertical steel axis.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 6 "Geodesy" to "Geometry" by Various