OCTANT Meaning and
Definition
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An octant is a term used in geometry and navigation to describe a specific unit of measurement or division within a system. In its most basic sense, an octant refers to one eighth or 1/8th part of a circle. This concept is particularly useful in spherical coordinates, where a sphere or a circle is divided into eight equal parts, each measuring 45 degrees, thus creating octants.
The term octant is also employed in navigational instruments, specifically with regard to an octant instrument. An octant instrument is a precursor to the modern sextant and is typically used for celestial navigation. It consists of a graduated arc, measuring precisely 45 degrees, which incorporates a small telescope fixed at the center. The primary purpose of an octant instrument is to measure an angular distance between two celestial objects or between a celestial object and the horizon. These measurements are crucial for sailors and navigators to determine their location and plot accurate course directions while at sea.
In summary, an octant is a mathematical division of a circle or sphere into eight equal parts or 1/8th of the total circle. It is also an instrument used in navigation for measuring angular distances between celestial objects or the horizon.
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A nautical instrument, the measuring arc of which is the eighth part of a circle; the eighth part of a circle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for OCTANT
- ictant
- kctant
- lctant
- pctant
- 0ctant
- 9ctant
- oxtant
- ovtant
- oftant
- odtant
- ocrant
- ocfant
- ocgant
- ocyant
- oc6ant
- oc5ant
- octznt
- octsnt
- octwnt
- octqnt
Etymology of OCTANT
The word "octant" has its origins in Latin. It derives from the Latin word "octans", which literally means "eighth part" or "eighth portion". In ancient astronomy, an "octant" was a navigational instrument used to measure angles, especially for celestial navigation. It was so named because it covered one-eighth of a circle, corresponding to an angle of 45 degrees.
Similar spelling words for OCTANT
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