Definitions for octantˈɒk tənt
Random House Webster's College Dictionary
oc•tantˈɒk tənt(n.)
the eighth part of a circle.
Category: Math
any of the eight parts into which three mutually perpendicular planes divide space.
Category: Math
an instrument having an arc of 24°, used by navigators for measuring angles up to 90°.
Category: Surveying
the position of one heavenly body when 45° distant from another.
Category: Astronomy
Origin of octant:
1680–90; < L octant-, s. of octāns=oct(ō)eight+-āns, as in quadrānsquadrant
oc•tan′tal-ˈtæn tl(adj.)
Princeton's WordNet
octant(noun)
a measuring instrument for measuring angles to a celestial body; similar to a sextant but with 45 degree calibration
Wiktionary
octant(Noun)
The eighth part of a circle; an arc of 45 degrees.
octant(Noun)
: The eighth part of a disc; a sector of 45 degrees; half a quadrant.
octant(Noun)
: An instrument for measuring angles, particularly of elevation.
Origin: From octans
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