navigate

American  

[nav-i-geyt] / ˈnæv ɪˌgeɪt /

verb (used with object)

navigated, navigating

1. to move on, over, or through (water, air, or land) in a ship or aircraft.

   to navigate a river.

2. to direct or manage (a ship, aircraft, or guided missile) on its course.

3. to ascertain or plot and control the course or position of (a ship, aircraft, etc.).

4. to pass over (the sea or other body of water), as a ship does.

5. to walk or find one's way on, in, or across.

   It was difficult to navigate the stairs in the dark.

6. to move or progress through in a logical sequence.

   Headings and subheadings make it easier to navigate a long article.

7. Computers. to move from one part to another of (a website, document, etc.), especially by using the links.

   Their site is uncluttered and easy to navigate.

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verb (used without object)

navigated, navigating

1. to direct or manage a ship, aircraft, or guided missile on its course.

2. to pass over the water, as a ship does.

3. to walk or find one's way.

4. to travel by ship or boat; sail.

5. to move or progress through something in a logical sequence.

   We’re navigating through a maze of environmental legislation.

6. Computers. to move from one part to another of a website, document, etc.

navigate British  

/ ˈnævɪˌɡeɪt /

verb

1. to plan, direct, or plot the path or position of (a ship, an aircraft, etc)

2. (tr) to travel over, through, or on (water, air, or land) in a boat, aircraft, etc

3. informal to direct (oneself, one's way, etc) carefully or safely

   he navigated his way to the bar

4. (intr) (of a passenger in a motor vehicle) to give directions to the driver; point out the route

5. rare (intr) to voyage in a ship; sail

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Other Word Forms

• misnavigate verb
• renavigate verb (used with object)
• unnavigated adjective
• well-navigated adjective

Etymology

Origin of navigate

First recorded in 1580–90; from Latin nāvigātus “sailed,” past participle of nāvigāre “to sail,” from nāv(is) “ship” + -igāre, combining form of agere “to drive, do”; fumigate

Explanation

To navigate is to determine a path or course. If you volunteer to navigate on your family’s road trip to Alaska, be sure you’re the type who’s willing to stop and ask for directions. Navigate, like “navy” and “naval,” comes from the Latin word navis meaning “ship.” Without the luxury of modern technology, ancient sailors had to be excellent navigators; they often relied on the stars to chart their course. (We don’t recommend that you try this method of navigation with your family in the car.)

Example Sentences

However, the Orion spacecraft experienced issues with helium valves on Orion’s propulsion system, which helps the crew navigate in space.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

The individuals who survive and flourish in such a system are sycophants and mediocrities, and those who have learned to navigate the Great Leader’s moods are far from the most qualified, talented or honorable.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026

“The EV market continues to challenge the industry, requiring measured decisions throughout the last few years to navigate this unpredictability,” Volkswagen’s American subsidiary said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Even as far back as the autumn, there was a belief internally there would be choppy waters to navigate following a turbulent summer.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

Always waiting for an opportunity, a way to navigate the minefield.

From "We'll Fly Away" by Bryan Bliss

Related Words

• cross
• cruise
• handle
• maneuver
• operate
• sail
• steer