sextant
|sex-tant|
C1
/ˈsɛkstənt/
navigation instrument
Etymology
Etymology Information
'sextant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sextans,' where 'sext-' meant 'sixth part.'
Historical Evolution
'sextans' transformed into the English word 'sextant' in the 18th century, referring to the instrument's arc, which is one-sixth of a circle.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to a sixth part, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a navigational instrument.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an instrument used for measuring the angular distance between two visible objects, primarily used in navigation to determine latitude and longitude.
The navigator used a sextant to determine the ship's position at sea.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/19 11:21