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

If the document was indeed written by Allen, Baragona said it would represent a fundamental change from the person he knew when they were making gimbals together at IJK Controls.

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

For example, some gimbals will let you do a programable pan and have the added benefit of acting as a stabilizer when you go handheld.

From The Verge • Feb. 1, 2022

There is a limit to how small you can make spinning discs in gimbals, but other technological developments have miniaturised the gyroscope.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2019

From one form we have the gimbals, or twin pivots, which keep the compass horizontal.

From The Romance of Words (4th ed.) by Weekley, Ernest