theodolite
1 synonym for theodolite, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A surveyor's instrument that sights a target through a telescope on a stand and measures its angle up and across.
How to use theodolite
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
set up a theodolite
theodolite reading
surveyor's theodolite
It is a technical term used mainly in surveying and engineering.
Etymology
The word comes from New Latin theodolitus, recorded in 1571. It may combine a Greek word for sight or view with an Arabic word for an astrolabe or alidade.
Full origin of theodolite →Frequently asked questions
What is a theodolite used for?
A theodolite is used in surveying to measure horizontal and vertical angles.
How does a theodolite work?
The surveyor sights a target through its telescope and reads off the angles from the instrument.
How do you pronounce theodolite?
It is said thee-OD-uh-lyte, with the stress on the second syllable.
