Declinator

/ˈdɛklɪneɪtər/ noun

Definition

A device or instrument that measures or indicates declination, especially of the magnetic or celestial kind.

Etymology

From declinate + -or suffix. This is a technical term from astronomy and navigation for measurement instruments.

Kelly Says

Early navigators used hand-held declinators—simple devices showing magnetic declination—that became obsolete once accurate magnetic charts were printed on maps, but they're still collected by maritime history enthusiasts.

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