ˈkʌmpəs n. & v. --n. 1 (in full
magnetic compass) an
instrument showing the direction of magnetic
north and bearings
from it. 2 (usu. in pl.) an instrument
for taking measurements and describing circles,
with two arms
connected at
one end by a
movable joint. 3 a
circumference or
boundary. 4
area,
extent; scope (e.g. of
knowledge or experience) (beyond my compass). 5 the
range of tones of a
voice or a
musical instrument. --v.tr.
literary 1 hem
in. 2
grasp mentally. 3
contrive,
accomplish. 4 go
round. øcompass card a
circular rotating card showing the 32
principal bearings, forming the
indicator of a magnetic compass. compass rose a
circle of the principal directions
marked on a
chart. compass-saw a saw with a
narrow blade, for
cutting curves. compass
window a bay window with a semi-circular
curve. øøcompassable adj. [ME f. OF compas ult. f. L passus PACE(1)]