Meaning & use

Theodolites

noun·Academic

Last updated

Precision instruments used for measuring horizontal and vertical angles, especially in surveying and construction.

See it in a sentence

The survey crew set up their theodolites at each corner of the proposed lot.

Modern theodolites often include electronic displays that replace the old optical scales.

A note on using this word

The origin of the word 'theodolite' is uncertain, though it dates to at least the sixteenth century and has no clear connection to Greek 'theos' (god) despite appearances.

Words with a similar meaning

surveying instrument

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