magnetic north

noun

: the northerly direction in the earth's magnetic field indicated by the north-seeking pole of a compass needle

Examples of magnetic north in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Related article Earth’s magnetic north pole is on the move, and scientists just updated its position The US military actively publicized its achievements at Camp Century. Katie Hunt, CNN, 15 Mar. 2025 As for the magnetic north pole, its future movement is also uncertain. Ella Jeffries, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Jan. 2025 That means a compass still works in orbit, aligning itself with Earth's magnetic north. Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2025 Since it was first discovered in 1831 by explorer James Clark Ross, the magnetic north pole has gradually shifted. Ella Jeffries, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for magnetic north

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of magnetic north was in 1812

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Magnetic north.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magnetic%20north. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

magnetic north

noun
: the northerly direction in the earth's magnetic field indicated by the north-seeking pole of a compass needle
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!