gyrocompass

[ jahy-roh-kuhm-puhs ]

noun

1. a navigational compass containing a gyroscope rotor, that, when adjusted for the latitude and speed of the vessel or aircraft, indicates the direction of true north along the surface of the earth or communicates this information to one or more gyro repeaters.

gyrocompass

/ ˈdʒaɪrəʊˌkʌmpəs /

noun

1. nautical a nonmagnetic compass that uses a motor-driven gyroscope to indicate true north Sometimes shortened togyro

Word History and Origins

Origin of gyrocompass¹

First recorded in 1905–10; gyro(scope) + compass

Example Sentences

The car was equipped with an electrically operated gyrocompass, of no use to him now.

From Project Gutenberg