theodolite
nounUK /θiˈɒdəlaɪt/
US /θiˈɑːdəlaɪt/
A tool that helps people measure angles when they look at faraway things.
The surveyor used a theodolite to measure the angle of the hill.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A precision optical instrument for measuring horizontal and vertical angles, used in surveying and engineering.
Engineers relied on the theodolite to align the tunnel accurately.
3. A device mounted on a tripod with a rotating telescope for sighting distant points.
He adjusted the theodolite on its tripod before taking the reading.
4. An instrument historically used in astronomy and navigation to measure angular positions.
Early astronomers used a theodolite-like device to track star positions.