Definition

Noun: A satellite-based radio navigation system that provides geolocation and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on or near the Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites. It functions by precisely calculating the time difference for signals from multiple satellites to reach the receiver.

Usage

The term "global positioning system" (often abbreviated as GPS) is used to refer to the technology, the network of satellites, or the service itself. - It is commonly used as a singular noun. - The abbreviation "GPS" is frequently used in place of the full term.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The global positioning system has revolutionized modern navigation.
  • We used the car's built-in global positioning system to find the hotel.
  • Hikers often carry a device that utilizes the global positioning system for safety.

Advanced Usage

• "GPS" as a Modifier: The abbreviation is often used adjectivally to describe related technology.
  • GPS coordinates are essential for marking a location.
  • GPS tracking is used in fleet management.
• Conceptual Use: The term can be used to represent the concept of precise satellite-based positioning.
  • The reliability of the global positioning system is critical for aviation.

Variants and Related Words

• GPS: The standard acronym for "global positioning system."
• Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS): A broader term that encompasses GPS and other international systems like GLONASS or Galileo.
• Satellite navigation (satnav): A more general term for any system that uses satellites for navigation, with GPS being the most prominent example.

Synonyms

• Satellite navigation system: A direct descriptive synonym.
• Geolocation system: Emphasizes the function of determining geographic location.

Related Phrases

• GPS receiver: The device that interprets signals from the satellites.
• GPS signal: The radio transmission from a satellite used for positioning.
• Turn on/off the GPS: A common instruction for enabling or disabling the location function on a device.

Notes

The "global positioning system" was developed and is maintained by the United States government. When capitalized as "Global Positioning System," it specifically refers to this U.S. system. The lowercase term "global positioning system" can sometimes refer more generically to the technology.

Noun

1. a navigational system involving satellites and computers that can determine the latitude and longitude of a receiver on Earth by computing the time difference for signals from different satellites to reach the receiver