How Do You Spell RHUMB?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈʌm] (IPA)

Rhumb, pronounced as /rʌm/ is a nautical term referring to a line that passes through all points along a specific compass bearing. The word is derived from the Portuguese word "rumbo" which also has the same meaning. The spelling of the word rhumb may seem unusual, but it follows the English language's inconsistency in pronunciation and spelling. The "h" in the word is silent, and the "u" is pronounced as "uh." Overall, the spelling of the word rhumb may take some getting used to, but it is necessary for nautical navigation.

RHUMB Meaning and Definition

1. A rhumb, also known as a loxodrome, is a navigational concept commonly used in marine or aviation navigation. It refers to a line on the Earth's surface that cuts all meridians at the same angle, resulting in a constant bearing or direction, regardless of the starting point. In simpler terms, a rhumb is a path that maintains a consistent compass heading throughout its course.

   The concept of rhumb lines emerged as a method of navigation during the Age of Discovery when sailors and explorers sought efficient ways to traverse the globe. By plotting a rhumb line on a navigational chart, sailors could maintain a constant heading, making their course predictable and enabling them to accurately reach their destination. The usefulness of rhumb lines can be attributed to their ability to simplify navigation, particularly over long distances, as they eliminate the need for frequent adjustments.

   Rhumb lines differ from "great circle" routes, which are the shortest paths between two points on a globe. Unlike great circle routes, rhumb lines are not always the most efficient or shortest way to reach a destination due to the Earth's curved surface. However, they allow for simpler navigation by maintaining a steady compass bearing, which is essential for certain scenarios, such as when winds are consistent or charting a direct course is not feasible.

   In summary, a rhumb is a navigational concept that refers to a path on the Earth's surface maintaining a constant direction, regardless of the starting location. It has been widely used by sailors and aviators to simplify navigation over long distances, allowing for a consistent compass heading throughout the journey.

2. The curve on the earth's surface which cuts all the meridians at the same angle; to sail on a rhumb, to sail on a particular compass direction.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for RHUMB

• ehumb
• fhumb
• thumb
• 5humb
• 4humb
• rgumb
• rbumb
• rnumb
• rjumb
• ruumb
• ryumb
• rhymb
• rhhmb
• rhjmb
• rh8mb
• rh7mb
• rhunb
• rhukb
• rhujb

Etymology of RHUMB

The word "rhumb" comes from the Portuguese word "rumbo", which means "a course" or "a line of direction". The Portuguese term is believed to be derived from the Latin phrase "Rumbus Nauticus", meaning "nautical rule" or "nautical line". In navigational terms, a rhumb refers to a line crossing all meridians of longitude (i.e., a line of constant bearing) used in navigation. The word "rhumb" has been in use in English since the 16th century.

Similar spelling words for RHUMB

• rhumba,
• rhomb.

Plural form of RHUMB is RHUMBS