from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Compasses \Com"pass*es\, n., pl.
An instrument for describing circles, measuring figures,
etc., consisting of two, or (rarely) more, pointed branches,
or legs, usually joined at the top by a rivet on which they
move.
[1913 Webster]
Note: The compasses for drawing circles have adjustable pen
points, pencil points, etc.; those used for measuring
without adjustable points are generally called
dividers. See {Dividers}.
[1913 Webster]
{Bow compasses}. See {Bow-compass}.
{Caliber compasses}, {Caliper compasses}. See {Calipers}.
{Proportional}, {Triangular}, etc., {compasses}. See under
{Proportional}, etc.
[1913 Webster]