spirit compass: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Specialized
Quick answer
What does “spirit compass” mean?
A compass that uses a floating magnetic needle (spirit-filled capsule) to point to magnetic north.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A compass that uses a floating magnetic needle (spirit-filled capsule) to point to magnetic north.
A term for the standard, liquid-damped magnetic compass used in navigation, aviation, and outdoor activities, often distinguished from digital or gyrocompasses. Can also metaphorically refer to one's inner moral or intuitive guidance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The term is equally technical in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both. The metaphorical use is rare and literary.
Frequency
Low frequency in general language; moderately common in specific technical fields (navigation, surveying, outdoor gear).
Grammar
How to Use “spirit compass” in a Sentence
adjust the ~read the ~the ~ points toa ~ with arely on the ~Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “spirit compass” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The device spirit-compasses the direction quite accurately. (rare/technical verb form)
American English
- We need to spirit-compass our way through the valley. (rare/technical verb form)
adverb
British English
- The needle moved spirit-compass-steadily. (highly contrived)
American English
- (No standard adverbial use.)
adjective
British English
- The spirit-compass reading was essential for the survey.
American English
- He preferred the spirit-compass design for its stability.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in businesses selling navigation equipment.
Academic
Used in technical writing on navigation, geology, or physics.
Everyday
Used by hikers, sailors, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Technical
Standard term in navigation, cartography, and surveying manuals.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “spirit compass”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “spirit compass”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spirit compass”
- Incorrect: 'ghost compass' (wrong translation of 'spirit').
- Incorrect: 'spiritual compass' (for the technical instrument).
- Incorrect plural: 'spirits compasses' (should be 'spirit compasses').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A spirit compass is a simple magnetic compass dampened by fluid. A gyrocompass uses a fast-spinning rotor and is non-magnetic.
The term 'spirit' refers to the alcohol-based liquid (historically 'spirits of wine') inside the capsule that houses the magnetic needle.
In everyday talk, most people just say 'compass'. 'Spirit compass' is a technical term used by professionals or enthusiasts to specify the type.
The liquid provides damping, so the needle settles quickly and steadily, making it easier to get an accurate reading, especially on the move or in windy conditions.
A compass that uses a floating magnetic needle (spirit-filled capsule) to point to magnetic north.
Spirit compass is usually technical/specialized in register.
Spirit compass: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspɪr.ɪt ˌkʌm.pəs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspɪr.ɪt ˌkʌm.pəs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(metaphorical) one's moral spirit compass”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the 'spirit' in the bottle: a spirit compass has a vial of liquid spirit (alcohol) to steady the needle's spirit (movement).
Conceptual Metaphor
GUIDANCE IS A COMPASS; MORALITY/INTUITION IS A NAVIGATIONAL INSTRUMENT.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of the liquid in a spirit compass?