gimbals

American  

[gim-buhlz, jim-] / ˈgɪm bəlz, ˈdʒɪm- /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. Sometimes gimbal. a contrivance, consisting of a ring or base on an axis, that permits an object, as a ship's compass, mounted in or on it to tilt freely in any direction, in effect suspending the object so that it will remain horizontal even when its support is tipped.

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gimbals British  

/ ˈɡɪm-, ˈdʒɪmbəlz /

plural noun

1. Also called: gimbal ring.  a device, consisting of two or three pivoted rings at right angles to each other, that provides free suspension in all planes for an object such as a gyroscope, compass, chronometer, etc

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Etymology

Origin of gimbals

First recorded in 1570–80; alteration of gimmal

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

gimbals

Boeing pieces together gimbals, circuit boards and wiring for the seekers in the missile’s nose.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 9, 2026

Kevin Baragona said he and Allen worked together “making stabilized gimbals for Hollywood” at IJK for about six months.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 3, 2026

An aluminum truss provided infrastructure, and custom joints, gimbals and animatronics gave the astronaut life.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 10, 2026

Both gimbals can also be bought as a combo bundle that comes with a plethora of accessories.

From The Verge ● Jun. 15, 2022

Within the lantern are a certain number of lights and reflectors, each suspended on gimbals, so that they always maintain their perpendicular position, notwithstanding the rolling of the vessel.

From A Yacht Voyage Round England by Kingston, William Henry Giles