magnetic bearing

American  

noun

Navigation.

1. the bearing of a point relative to that of the nearest magnetic pole.

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Example Sentences

The figures 13 and 31 in the old runway numbers are the shortened forms of the magnetic bearing — or direction — the pilot needs to steer to line up with the runway.

From Seattle Times

Having carefully indicated the required direction by placing two stakes in a line with the magnetic bearing, Captain Jeremy gave the word for the men to proceed, and, wielding their hatchets with a will, they began to cut the path that was to extend two miles in a straight line; for the track cut by Captain Jeremy years ago was now almost totally obliterated, though we had found traces of it in the swamps.

From Project Gutenberg

"North 88 east," said Fuller to himself, as he read the magnetic bearing.

From Project Gutenberg

If Dwight Eisenhower's extraordinary hold on the American people were solely due to the fact that he has a warm personality and a magnetic bearing, we might have justifiable reservations .

From Time Magazine Archive

“You’ve got the magnetic bearing,” said Scarlett, taking the instrument from the girl’s hand.

From Project Gutenberg