DEAD RECKONING Meaning and
Definition
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Dead reckoning is a navigation method that refers to calculating an object's position based on previously known or assumed data. It involves estimating an object's position by using its last known position, the speed at which it is moving, and the time elapsed since its last position fix. Dead reckoning is primarily used when other forms of navigation, such as GPS or visual landmarks, are unavailable or unreliable.
In dead reckoning, a series of movements, including distance traveled and direction, are recorded to determine the current position. This method assumes that the object is moving in a straight line and at a constant rate. It does not take into account external factors such as wind, currents, or other variables that may affect the object's course.
To perform dead reckoning, one must possess accurate information regarding the object's initial position and direction, as well as continuous updates on speed and time intervals. Using these known or estimated values, the navigator or pilot can calculate the current position by incrementally adding the distance traveled in each direction to the previous position.
Dead reckoning is commonly used in aviation, maritime navigation, and outdoor activities such as hiking or orienteering when traditional forms of navigation are hindered. While it can provide a rough estimation of an object's current position, it is prone to errors that accumulate over time and must be adjusted once more accurate information becomes available.
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A ship's place ascertained from the log-book.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DEAD RECKONING
- sead reckoning
- xead reckoning
- cead reckoning
- fead reckoning
- read reckoning
- eead reckoning
- dwad reckoning
- dsad reckoning
- ddad reckoning
- drad reckoning
- d4ad reckoning
- d3ad reckoning
- dezd reckoning
- desd reckoning
- dewd reckoning
- deqd reckoning
- deas reckoning
- deax reckoning
- deac reckoning
- deaf reckoning
Etymology of DEAD RECKONING
The term "dead reckoning" originates from the early 17th century and is a fusion of two older words: "dead" and "reckoning".
1. "Dead" comes from the Old English word "dēad", which means "dead" or "lifeless". This term has evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "*daudaz".
2. "Reckoning" comes from the Middle English word "reknen", derived from the Old English word "gerecenian", meaning "to recount" or "to calculate". This Old English term was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*reknanan".
The phrase "dead reckoning" was primarily used in the context of navigation. It refers to the process of estimating a ship's position based on the course, distance, and speed previously determined.
