A person whose job is to plan and direct the course of a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle. More generally, it can mean someone who skillfully finds their way through complicated situations.
From Latin 'navigator' meaning 'sailor, seaman', from 'navigare' meaning 'to sail'. It came into English through late Middle French forms.
Before modern GPS, the navigator was one of the most crucial people on a ship, using stars, maps, and math to avoid disaster. Today, 'navigator' is also used metaphorically for people who guide others through complex systems like healthcare or careers.
Historically, professional navigators in maritime and exploration contexts were overwhelmingly male, and women’s roles in navigation and cartography were often unrecognized or attributed to male superiors.
Use “navigator” as a gender-neutral role term. Avoid assuming navigators are male; specify pronouns or names based on individuals’ self-identification.
["guide","pilot","wayfinder"]
When relevant, mention women navigators, pilots, and cartographers whose work has been historically overlooked, such as women who contributed to early aviation and space navigation.
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