Definition

A type of compass that uses a spinning wheel to find true north by aligning with the Earth's rotation.

Example

The ship's gyrocompass helped the captain navigate accurately through the fog.

Conversation

Have you ever seen how a gyrocompass works on a ship?

No, I haven't! How does it differ from a regular compass?

Well, it stays aligned to true north, which is really useful at sea.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gyrocompass → It is formed from "gyro-" (from Greek "gyros", meaning circle or rotation) and "compass" (from Latin "compassare", meaning to measure). The word "gyrocompass" refers to a device that uses the principles of rotation to determine direction, thus measuring orientation in a circular manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rotation' ('gyro-') helping to 'measure' ('compass') direction — that's how a gyrocompass works.

Visually Confused Words