Definition

1. Noun:
   • A horizontal angle measured clockwise from a reference direction: In navigation, astronomy, and surveying, an azimuth is the angular measurement in a horizontal plane, typically measured in degrees from a fixed reference point, most commonly true north.
   • The direction of a celestial body: Specifically, the azimuth of a celestial body is the angle between the vertical plane containing it and the plane of the meridian, measured along the horizon.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The surveyor calculated the azimuth from the benchmark to the new point.
  • To find the star, you first need to determine its azimuth and elevation.
  • The compass gives a magnetic azimuth, which must be corrected for true north.

Advanced Usage

• "True Azimuth": An azimuth measured from true north (geographic north).
  • For precise mapping, true azimuth is more reliable than magnetic azimuth.
• "Magnetic Azimuth": An azimuth measured from magnetic north, as indicated by a compass.
  • The map's grid north differs from the magnetic azimuth you get from your compass.
• "Back Azimuth": The opposite direction of a given azimuth, calculated by adding or subtracting 180 degrees.
  • To return to your starting point, simply follow the back azimuth.

Variants and Related Words

• Azimuthal (adj): Relating to or measured by azimuth.
  • An azimuthal projection map distorts shapes but preserves directions from a central point.

Synonyms

• Bearing: A general term for direction or position relative to a fixed point, often used interchangeably with azimuth in navigation.
• Direction Angle: A more generic term for an angle specifying direction.

Related Phrases and Terms

• Azimuth Circle: A graduated ring on an instrument (like a compass or theodolite) used for measuring azimuths.
  • The navigator sighted the landmark through the azimuth circle.
• Azimuth Thruster: A marine propulsion device that can rotate to direct its thrust in any horizontal direction.
  • The ship used its azimuth thrusters to dock precisely without tugboats.

Noun

1. the azimuth of a celestial body is the angle between the vertical plane containing it and the plane of the meridian