rhumb line

noun

1. a curve on the surface of a sphere that cuts all meridians at the same angle. It is the path taken by a vessel or aircraft that maintains a constant compass direction.

rhumb line

noun

1. an imaginary line on the surface of a sphere, such as the earth, that intersects all meridians at the same angle
2. the course navigated by a vessel or aircraft that maintains a uniform compass heading

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhumb line¹

First recorded in 1660–70

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhumb line¹

C16: from Old Spanish rumbo , apparently from Middle Dutch ruum space, ship's hold, but also influenced by Latin rhombus

Example Sentences

Rhumb Line, a circle on the earth's surface making a given angle with the meridian; applied to the course of a ship in navigation.

From Project Gutenberg