Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
binnacle

binnacle

1 9.9
A case on a ship that holds the main compass near the steering area
  • noun
  • /ˈbɪnəkl/
  • Specialized
: bodega
  • She adjusted the light above the binnacle to better see the compass readings during nighttime sailing.
  • instrument binnacle

Examples

  • In the old sailboat, the binnacle held the compass steady, allowing the crew to navigate safely.

  • I could barely believe it when I checked the binnacle.

    Fiction book (2000)

  • His voice horn hung by the binnacle.

    Fiction book (1994)

  • Gabrielle's band moves across his chest, opening his shirt, her fingers finding the small scars below his collarbone, the imprint of the instrument binnacle.

    Fiction book (1996)

  • Blessington, stoned at the wheel, his glass of straight Demerara beside the binnacle, had calmly watched a dimly lighted tug struggle past on a parallel course at a distance of a mile or so.

    Fiction book (1996)

  • The captain checked the ship's course using the compass housed in the binnacle located near the helm.

Surface Forms

binnacle singular
binnacles plural

Etymology

The word binnacle can be remembered by thinking of bin as a small 'box' or 'container' on a ship that holds something important. So, a binnacle is the special box at the helm that holds and protects the ship's compass, helping it stay accurate.