magnetic needle
noun
a slender magnetized steel rod that, when adjusted to swing in a horizontal plane, as in a compass, indicates the direction of the earth's magnetic fields or the approximate position of north and south.
Origin of magnetic needle
First recorded in 1840–50
Words nearby magnetic needle
Example sentences from the Web for magnetic needle
Theory of the diurnal variation of the magnetic-needle, illustrated by experiments.
FLY, or Compass-card, placed on the magnetic-needle and supported by a pin, whereon it turns freely.
The Sailor's Word-Book |William Henry Smyth
British Dictionary definitions for magnetic needle
magnetic needle
noun
a slender magnetized rod used in certain instruments, such as the magnetic compass, for indicating the direction of a magnetic field