An instrument for taking measurements and describing circles, consisting (in its simplest form) of two straight and equal legs connected at one end…

†(a) = paradoxal compass n. at paradoxal, adj. 1 (obsolete); (b) chiefly historical a compass having two opposite pairs of legs turning on a…

Originally: †compasses used to measure the calibre of shot (obsolete). In later use: an instrument for measuring the diameter of a round object…

(in singular or (usually) in plural) = sense 1a.

Pertaining or relating to a triangle: as triangular compasses, a kind of compasses with three legs, used for taking off triangles; triangular co-ordi…

plural (a) Dividing compasses; a kind of compasses worked by means of a screw fastened to one leg and passing through the other; used for measuring…

With plural agreement. An instrument with two hinged legs, for measuring the diameter of a round object; = callipers at calliper, n. 1a.

compasses which can be regulated to the utmost nicety; see quot.

A pair of compasses with the legs jointed so that the points can be bent inwards; also applied to any compasses made for drawing small circles…

a pair of callipers with inward-facing points for measuring the outside length or diameter of an object.

a compass having one leg fitted with an arc-shaped ‘wing’ or projecting piece which passes through the other leg and may be clamped in any…

In singular and plural. An instrument similar to a pair of compasses, but with one curved leg resembling that of a pair of calipers. Cf. odd-leg, adj.

Designating a pair of compasses or callipers having one of the two legs bowed or bent; usually as odd-leg callipers. Also used as n., in plural: =…