What does binnacle mean?
Definitions for binnacle
ˈbɪn ə kəlbin·na·cle
This dictionary definitions page includes all the possible meanings, example usage and translations of the word binnacle.
Princeton's WordNet
binnaclenoun
a nonmagnetic housing for a ship's compass (usually in front of the helm)
Wiktionary
binnaclenoun
The wooden housing for a ship's compass, with its corrector magnets and illuminating arrangements; the log and other equipment for measuring the ship's speed is also stowed there.
binnaclenoun
The instrument cluster on a car or motorcycle.
ChatGPT
binnacle
A binnacle is a built-in housing or case for a ship's compass. It is usually located in a central, accessible location on the ship's deck so that navigators can easily read the compass and adjust the ship's course. A traditional binnacle often includes a lighting system to illuminate the compass at night.
Webster Dictionary
Binnaclenoun
a case or box placed near the helmsman, containing the compass of a ship, and a light to show it at night
Wikidata
Binnacle
A binnacle is a waist-high case or stand on the deck of a ship, generally mounted in front of the helmsman, in which navigational instruments are placed for easy and quick reference as well as to protect the delicate instruments. Its traditional purpose was to hold the ship's magnetic compass, mounted in gimbals to keep it level while the ship pitched and rolled. A binnacle may be subdivided into sections and its contents typically include one or more compasses and an oil lamp or other light source. Other devices such as a sand timer for estimating speed may have been stored in the binnacle as well. The construction of many early binnacles used iron nails, which were later discovered to cause magnetic deviations in compass readings. As the development of the compass and understanding of magnetism progressed, greater attention was given to binnacle construction to avoid compass disturbances caused by iron. With the introduction of iron-clad ships the magnetic deviation observed in compasses became more severe. Methods of compensation by arranging iron or magnetic objects near the binnacle were developed. In 1854, a new type of binnacle was patented by John Gray of Liverpool which directly incorporated adjustable correcting magnets on screws or rack and pinions. This was improved again when Lord Kelvin patented in the 1880s another system of compass and which incorporated two compensating magnets. These are colloquially known as "Kelvin's Balls" in the UK, and "Navigator's Balls" in the US.
Chambers 20th Century Dictionary
Binnacle
bin′a-kl, n. (naut.) the box in which on shipboard the compass is kept. [Formerly bittacle—Port. bitácola—L. habitaculum, a dwelling-place—habit-āre, to dwell.]
The Standard Electrical Dictionary
Binnacle
The case containing a mariner's compass on shipboard. It is enclosed completely; it has a glass side or window through which the compass can be seen, and is provided with one or two lamps arranged to light the card, while showing as little light as possible outside.
Dictionary of Nautical Terms
binnacle
(formerly BITTACLE). It appears evidently to be derived from the French term habittacle, a small habitation, which is now used for the same purpose by the seamen of that nation. The binnacle is a wooden case or box, which contains the compass, and a light to illuminate the compass at night; there are usually three binnacles on the deck of a ship-of-war, two near the helm being designed for the man who steers, weather and lee, and the other amidships, 10 or 12 feet before these, where the quarter-master, who conns the ship, stands when steering, or going with a free wind. (See conn.)
Matched Categories
Usage in printed sourcesFrom:
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Numerology
Chaldean Numerology
The numerical value of binnacle in Chaldean Numerology is: 7
Pythagorean Numerology
The numerical value of binnacle in Pythagorean Numerology is: 6
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Translations for binnacle
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"binnacle." Definitions.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2025. Web. 15 Jan. 2025. <https://www.definitions.net/definition/binnacle>.
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