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gimbals

[ gim-buhlz, jim- ]

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.


gimbals

/ ˈɡɪm-; ˈdʒɪmbəlz /

plural noun

  1. 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 Also calledgimbal ring
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of gimbals1

First recorded in 1570–80; alteration of gimmal
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Word History and Origins

Origin of gimbals1

C16: variant of earlier gimmal finger ring, from Old French gemel, from Latin gemellus, diminutive of geminus twin
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Example Sentences

When he opened his eyes he looked up and saw a hanging-lamp that creaked on its gimbals as it swayed to the roll of the schooner.

We both stepped to the open skylight and peered down through it at the barometer, which hung in gimbals from the fore transom.

The meter is in gimbals and is directed by a conical rudder which keeps it facing the stream with its axis horizontal.

When fitted in gimbals, it can be used at sea with much advantage.

To effect this they are suspended in gimbals by a brass arm.

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