compass

Universal Words noun 1 (also magnetic compass) [C] an instrument for finding direction, with a needle that always points to the north: a map and compass * the points of the compass (= N, S, E, W, etc.) 2 [C] (also compasses [pl.]) an instrument with two long thin parts joined together at the top, used for drawing circles and measuring distances on a map: a pair of compasses 3 [sing.] (formal) a range or an extent, especially of what can be achieved in a particular situation: We need to bring research techniques within the compass of normal teaching. * the compass of a singer's voice (= the range from the lowest to the highest note that he or she can sing)