navigation

noun

nav·​i·​ga·​tion ˌna-və-ˈgā-shən 

1

: the act or practice of navigating

2

: the science of getting vehicles from place to place

especially : the method of determining position, course, and distance traveled

3

: ship traffic or commerce

navigational

ˌna-və-ˈgā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

navigationally adverb

Examples of navigation in a Sentence

If you're going to be a good sailor you need to master navigation.

I don't mind driving if you're willing to do the navigation.

Our new car has an onboard navigation system.

Navigation becomes more difficult further upriver.

There are back and forward buttons for easier browser navigation.

Recent Examples on the Web

The naval drone is equipped with autonomous navigation systems that are powered by artificial intelligence and can conduct precision maneuvers, target engagement, and integrate various payloads. —George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 31 Dec. 2024

An inspection of the Eagle S in Ghana in September 2023 discovered 24 defects, including problems with fire safety and navigation systems, an astounding number, Ms. Pavytska said. —Michael Schwirtz, New York Times, 28 Dec. 2024

The model provides crucial information for the airline and shipping industries, which need to update navigation systems to reflect the recent data. —Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 26 Dec. 2024

Bees, ants and birds, among others, use it for navigation. —New Atlas, 24 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1547, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing navigation

• celestial navigation

Kids Definition

navigation

noun

nav·​i·​ga·​tion ˌnav-ə-ˈgā-shən 

1

: the act or practice of navigating

2

: the science of getting ships, aircraft, or spacecraft from place to place

especially : the method of figuring out position, course, and distance traveled

navigational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective