radio compass

American  

noun

1. a radio receiver with a directional antenna for determining the bearing of the receiver from a radio transmitter.

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radio compass British  

noun

1. any navigational device that gives a bearing by determining the direction of incoming radio waves transmitted from a particular radio station or beacon See also goniometer

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Etymology

Origin of radio compass

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

But radio compass bearings were relatively new navigational aids at the time and not trusted by veteran mariners.

From Los Angeles Times

Of these the 750 wave is reserved for government stations such as radio compass stations, etc.;

From Project Gutenberg

The radio compass is dependable day or night, and is said to be quite as reliable as a sextant or other navigating instruments.

From Project Gutenberg

Quickly he manipulated the coil of his radio compass.

From Project Gutenberg

"Now I'm going to test that radio compass and see what may be expected of it in the morning if we don't find Mr. Crusoe to-night, which isn't very likely."

From Project Gutenberg