Bow-compass \Bow"-com`pass\, n.; pl. {Bow-compasses}.
1. An arcograph.
[1913 Webster]
2. A small pair of compasses, one leg of which carries a
pencil, or a pen, for drawing circles. Its legs are often
connected by a bow-shaped spring, instead of by a joint.
[1913 Webster]
3. A pair of compasses, with a bow or arched plate riveted to
one of the legs, and passing through the other.
[1913 Webster]