global positioning system

British  

noun

1.  GPS.  a system of earth-orbiting satellites, transmitting signals continuously towards the earth, that enables the position of a receiving device on or near the earth's surface to be accurately estimated from the difference in arrival times of the signals

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Global Positioning System Scientific  

/ glō′bəl /

1. A system of satellites combined with receivers on the Earth that determines the latitude and longitude of any particular receiver through triangulation. The distance of the receiver to three of the satellites is ascertained by measuring the time-delay of a predetermined radio signal (called a pseudo-random code). Errors in timing can be corrected by checking the signals against the signal from a fourth satellite. Current systems can pinpoint the location of the receiver with an accuracy of around 5 m (16 ft). The system is used for navigation, surveying, and many other applications.

2. Compare loran

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global positioning system Cultural  

1. A U.S. military satellite system now available for public use that allows those with a GPS receiver to locate their position on the surface of the Earth to within a few feet. A constellation of twenty-four satellites orbits the Earth, each of which transmits a radio signal giving both location of the satellite and the time of the transmission. Triangulation of three separate signals is then used by the receiver to determine its position on the Earth's surface.

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Example Sentences

GPS - the Global Positioning System - comprises many small satellites orbiting the Earth.

From Science Daily

“Among other things, these applications introduce the potential for collecting and monitoring user and device information through device sensors such as a camera, microphone and Global Positioning System,” Inspector General Joseph Cuffari said.

From Washington Times

The precision-agriculture approach employs technology and the global positioning system to ensure that seeds, fertilizer and chemicals are used correctly.

From Reuters

Over the last decade, global positioning system technology has been incorporated to ankle bracelets; the base unit is replaced with a smartphone that defendants must carry around the clock, but the more advanced versions incorporate wireless transmitters.

From Encyclopedia.com

ARPA-H is modeled after the military-focused DARPA, which spawned the internet and the global positioning system, commonly known as GPS.

From Seattle Times