COMPASS


Meaning of COMPASS in English

■ noun

1》 an instrument containing a magnetized pointer which shows the direction of magnetic north and bearings from it.

2》 (also ~es ) an instrument for drawing circles and arcs and measuring distances between points, consisting of two arms linked by a movable joint.

3》 range or scope: the event had repercussions which are beyond the ~ of this book.

■ verb archaic

1》 encircle or surround.

2》 manage to accomplish.

Origin

ME: from OFr. compas (n.), ~er (v.), based on L. com- 'together' + passus 'a step or pace'.

Concise Oxford English vocab.      Сжатый оксфордский словарь английского языка.