Magnetic Meridian (Noun)
Meaning
An imaginary line passing through both magnetic poles of the Earth.
Classification
Nouns denoting spatial position.
Examples
- The direction of the magnetic meridian was used as a reference for early navigators to determine their direction of travel.
- The Earth's magnetic meridian passes through the magnetic north pole and magnetic south pole.
- To accurately plot their position on a map, sailors had to understand the concept of magnetic meridian and declination.
- The compass needle aligns itself with the magnetic meridian as it rotates to find the magnetic north.
- A ship's course was often given relative to the magnetic meridian to help pilots navigate through treacherous waters.