From MapHist.com - Glossary of Terms for historical maps

Glossary of Terms
Compass
By Pierre Joppen
Jul 7, 2004, 08:44

(1) An instrument, which indicates the direction of magnetic North, by means of a pivoting magnetic needle mounted on a circular dial or card. The dial or card indicates the cardinal directions, and can also have directions shown as compass points (up to 32) or in degrees (360°). (2) An instrument for drawing and measuring circles, consisting of two legs connected at one end by a movable joint.

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