magnetic needle

noun

1. a slender magnetized steel rod that, when adjusted to swing in a horizontal plane, as in a compass, indicates the direction of the earth's magnetic fields or the approximate position of north and south.

magnetic needle

noun

1. a slender magnetized rod used in certain instruments, such as the magnetic compass, for indicating the direction of a magnetic field

Word History and Origins

Origin of magnetic needle¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Seeing how the master-mariner honours the magnetic needle, every thoughtful passenger will probably consult it in like manner.

From Project Gutenberg

Under these conditions it is obvious that the magnetic needle is quite useless for steering purposes.

From Project Gutenberg

The former is called the variation, and the latter the dipping of the magnetic needle.

From Project Gutenberg

In the present instance the line of force appears to coincide with the direction of the magnetic needle.

From Project Gutenberg

This deflection of the magnetic needle is due to the fact that surrounding every electric current are magnetic lines of force.

From Project Gutenberg