circumferentor meaning
ENWCircumferentor
- A circumferentor, or surveyor's compass, is an instrument used in surveying to measure horizontal angles. It was superseded by the theodolite in the early 19th century.
- A circumferentor consists of a circular brass box containing a magnetic needle, which moves freely over a brass circle, or compass divided into 360 degrees. The needle is protected by a glass covering.
- Circumferentors were made throughout Europe, including in England, France, Italy, and Holland. By the early 19th century, Europeans preferred theodolites to circumferentors.
- NounPLcircumferentorsPREcircum-
- (surveying) An instrument used to measure horizontal angles, consisting of a brass circle and an index, all of one piece.
- (surveying) An instrument used to measure horizontal angles, consisting of a brass circle and an index, all of one piece.
Definition of circumferentor in English Dictionary
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Source: Wiktionary