English · Word Candidate

compass

/ˈkʌmpəs/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: compasses · compassing · compassed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A magnetic or electronic device used to determine the cardinal directions (usually magnetic or true north).

Noun

[H]ow many Seas to our fore-fathers impaſſable, for want of the Compaſſe?

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

A pair of compasses (a device used to draw circular arcs and transfer length measurements).

Noun

to fix one foot of their compass wherever they please

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To surround; to encircle; to environ; to stretch round.

Verb

Now all the blessings Of a glad father compass thee about!

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To go about or round entirely; to traverse.

Verb

So she goeth around the hill compassing.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “compass” mean?

A magnetic or electronic device used to determine the cardinal directions (usually magnetic or true north).

Is “compass” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.