prismatic compass

American  

noun

1. a hand compass equipped with sights and prisms to permit aiming the instrument at a point and at the same time reading the compass direction of the point.

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Etymology

Origin of prismatic compass

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

prismatic compass

If the prismatic compass is preferred, nothing smaller than two and one half inches in diameter should be used.

From Through the Brazilian Wilderness by Theodore Roosevelt

Attached to the staff of the commander as engineer and topographical officer, he had ridden at will on the flanks of the column, a single orderly his sole attendant, a prismatic compass his only instrument.

From To The Front A Sequel to Cadet Days by Charles King

It therefore seemed to Abdul Mujid only a wise precaution to get rid of his prismatic compass as speedily as possible.

From The Story of the Guides by G. J. Younghusband

Kingozi seated himself on a flat rock and at once began to take sights through a prismatic compass, entering the observations in a pocketbook.

From The Leopard Woman by Stewart Edward White

One prismatic compass, three and a-half inch, with silver ring: 5 pounds 5 shillings.

From Successful Exploration Through the Interior of Australia by William John Wills