noun
Common
GPS
jee-PEE-ehs
GPS (noun) means a satellite-based system used to determine a precise location on Earth (short for Global Positioning System). Example: “We used the GPS to find our way to the trailhead.”
noun
1
A satellite-based system used to determine a precise location on Earth (short for Global Positioning System).
"We used the GPS to find our way to the trailhead."
verb
1
To find or track the location of something using GPS.
"The delivery company GPS-tracks every van in real time."
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- GPSes
- Past tense
- GPSed
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We used the _____ to find our way to the trailhead.
Etymology
An acronym for "Global Positioning System".
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “GPS” mean?
The word “GPS” means a satellite-based system used to determine a precise location on Earth (short for Global Positioning System).
How do you pronounce “GPS”?
“GPS” is pronounced jee-PEE-ehs (/d͡ʒiˈpi.es/ in IPA).
How do you use “GPS” in a sentence?
Here is “GPS” used in a sentence: “We used the GPS to find our way to the trailhead.”
What part of speech is “GPS”?
Depending on how it is used, “GPS” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “GPS” a common word?
“GPS” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “GPS” have?
“GPS” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a satellite-based system used to determine a precise location on Earth (short for Global Positioning System).
What is the difference between GPS and sat nav?
GPS is the satellite-based system used to determine a precise location on Earth, while a sat nav is the device or app that uses GPS data to plan and follow routes. British English favours "sat nav" for the in-car device, whereas American English usually calls the same device "a GPS."
Can GPS be used as a verb?
Yes. In informal English, GPS works as a verb meaning to find or track the location of something using GPS, as in "we GPSed the route before setting off." In formal writing, "track" or "locate" is usually preferred.
Do you say "a GPS" or just "GPS"?
Use "GPS" without an article when you mean the positioning system itself: "the phone uses GPS." Use "a GPS" when you mean a physical receiver or device, as in "we bought a GPS for the car."
Should GPS be written in capital letters?
Yes. GPS is written in capitals because it is an initialism of Global Positioning System, with each letter pronounced separately. Lowercase "gps" appears only in casual writing such as text messages.
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