BINNACLE

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does binnacle mean? 

• BINNACLE (noun)
  The noun BINNACLE has 1 sense:

1. a nonmagnetic housing for a ship's compass (usually in front of the helm)

  Familiarity information: BINNACLE used as a noun is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• BINNACLE (noun)

Sense 1

Meaning:

A nonmagnetic housing for a ship's compass (usually in front of the helm)

Classified under:

Nouns denoting man-made objects

Hypernyms ("binnacle" is a kind of...):

housing (a protective cover designed to contain or support a mechanical component)

 Context examples 

As I passed between Harrison and the binnacle, which was built into the top of the cabin, I noticed that he was this time fully three points off.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)

“She must be a pretty old woman now,” he said, staring meditatively into the binnacle and then jerking a sharp glance at Harrison, who was steering a point off the course.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)

But Louis took and gave a spoke and gazed imperturbably into the binnacle.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)