sextant Synonyms
No Synonyms and anytonyms found
sextant Meaning
sextant (n)
a unit of angular distance equal to 60 degrees
a measuring instrument for measuring the angular distance between celestial objects; resembles an octant
sextant (n.)
The sixth part of a circle.
An instrument for measuring angular distances between objects, -- used esp. at sea, for ascertaining the latitude and longitude. It is constructed on the same optical principle as Hadley's quadrant, but usually of metal, with a nicer graduation, telescopic sight, and its arc the sixth, and sometimes the third, part of a circle. See Quadrant.
The constellation Sextans.
sextant Sentence Examples
- The ancient mariner relied on the sextant to determine his ship's latitude and longitude.
- The sextant's reflecting mirrors and index arm allowed sailors to measure the angle between the horizon and celestial bodies.
- Captain James Cook used a sextant during his groundbreaking voyages in the 18th century.
- Modern navigation systems have rendered the sextant largely obsolete, but it remains a popular tool for recreational sailing.
- The curved scale of the sextant's index arm is calibrated in degrees and minutes.
- Using a sextant requires patience and precision, as even small errors can lead to significant navigational mistakes.
- The sextant's design has changed little over centuries, a testament to its enduring effectiveness.
- The sextant is a valuable tool for astronomers, who use it to measure the altitude of celestial objects.
- In the absence of modern technology, a sextant can be used as a rudimentary sundial.
- The sextant is a symbol of maritime history and exploration, embodying the ingenuity and perseverance of seafarers.
FAQs About the word sextant
a unit of angular distance equal to 60 degrees, a measuring instrument for measuring the angular distance between celestial objects; resembles an octantThe sixt
No synonyms found.
No antonyms found.
The ancient mariner relied on the sextant to determine his ship's latitude and longitude.
The sextant's reflecting mirrors and index arm allowed sailors to measure the angle between the horizon and celestial bodies.
Captain James Cook used a sextant during his groundbreaking voyages in the 18th century.
Modern navigation systems have rendered the sextant largely obsolete, but it remains a popular tool for recreational sailing.
