azimuth

[ˈæzɪməθ]

azimuth Definition

• 1. the horizontal angle or direction of a compass bearing
• 2. the horizontal angle between the direction of an object and another object, or between it and true north

Using azimuth: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "azimuth" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The ship's azimuth was 270 degrees.

• Example

  The astronomer measured the azimuth of the star using a telescope.

• Example

  The pilot adjusted the plane's azimuth to avoid turbulence.

Phrases with azimuth

• true azimuth

  the horizontal angle between the direction of an object and true north

  Example

  The hiker used a compass to determine the true azimuth of the mountain peak.

• magnetic azimuth

  the horizontal angle between the direction of an object and magnetic north

  Example

  The sailor used a compass to determine the magnetic azimuth of the ship's course.

• azimuth circle

  a graduated circle attached to a telescope for measuring horizontal angles

  Example

  The astronomer used an azimuth circle to measure the position of the star.

Origins of azimuth

from Arabic 'as-sumūt', meaning 'the directions'

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Summary: azimuth in Brief

'Azimuth' [ˈæzɪməθ] refers to the horizontal angle or direction of a compass bearing, or the horizontal angle between the direction of an object and another object or true north. It is commonly used in navigation, astronomy, and aviation. Phrases like 'true azimuth' and 'magnetic azimuth' specify the type of azimuth being referred to. An 'azimuth circle' is a tool used to measure horizontal angles.