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. compass 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. compassable adj.
[ ME f. OF compas ult. f. L passus PACE(1) ]