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.
Curiosities Expand your knowledge with these intriguing reads: — Molten metals in Earth’s core generate a constantly moving magnetic field, which means the magnetic north pole isn’t fixed. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 26 Jan. 2025 Instead, magnetic north is the changing location where the planet’s magnetic field lines converge. Ella Jeffries, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Jan. 2025 Amidst the constant changes in Earth’s magnetic field, the most notable one is the drifting of the magnetic north pole. Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 26 Dec. 2024 As a result, the magnetic north pole continues to coast toward Siberia. Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 26 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near magnetic north

Cite this Entry

“Magnetic north.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magnetic%20north. Accessed 29 Jan. 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
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