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

I wouldn’t expect Feiyu or DJI to stop selling their larger motorized gimbals for phones, mirrorless cameras and DSLRs anytime soon.

From The Verge • Aug. 18, 2021

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

To capture the day, he employs the help of several drones, two to four compact steady cams and automated gimbals, an assistant, cinematographer, and of course, a director.

From New York Times • Jul. 31, 2018

"When they built the ships, they put these things on called gimbals, then a guy moved them or a robot or a computer controlled it and moved the ships around. It was awesome."

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 3, 2015

The gimbals or rings for suspension hinged at right-angles to one another, have been erroneously attributed to Cardan, the proper term being cardine, that is hinged or pivoted.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 7 "Columbus" to "Condottiere" by Various