Word Meaning

sextant definition and meaning

n. The sixth part of a circle.
n. An instrument for measuring angular distances between objects, -- used esp. at sea, for ascertaining the latitude and longitude. It is constructed on the same optical principle as Hadley's quadrant, but usually of metal, with a nicer graduation, telescopic sight, and its arc the sixth, and sometimes the third, part of a circle. See Quadrant.
n. The constellation Sextans.

Crossword clues for sextant

- Navigational instrument
- Navigator's aid measuring the angular distance between two visible objects