magnetic compass

noun

a compass having a magnetized needle generally in line with the magnetic poles of the earth.

magnetic compass

a compass containing a magnetic needle pivoted in a horizontal plane, that indicates the direction of magnetic north at points on the earth's surface

The magnetic compass has been for ages the mariner's guide over the trackless waters.

Thus we have testimony to the importance of these little vagaries on the part of the magnetic compass.

Altogether, then, it is not surprising that the old magnetic compass is somewhat unreliable.

We found there a penknife, a small magnetic compass, and many other remnants of the fall.

The needle of a magnetic compass serves very well as a magnetoscope.

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