<p><strong>Noun:</strong></p><ul><li>an instrument for determining directions, as by means of a freely rotating magnetized needle that indicates magnetic north.</li><li>the enclosing line or limits of any area; perimeter.</li><li>space within limits; area; extent; range; scope: the broad compass of the novel.</li><li>Also called range.</li><li>the total range of tones of a voice or of a musical instrument.</li><li>due or proper limits; moderate bounds: Their behavior stayed within the compass of propriety.</li><li>a passing round; circuit: the compass of a year.</li><li>Often compasses.</li><li>an instrument for drawing or describing circles, measuring distances, etc., consisting generally of two movable, rigid legs hinged to each other at one end (usually used with pair of): to spread the legs of a compass and draw a larger circle.</li><li>Astronomy: Compass. Also called Mar·i·ner's compass.</li><li>the constellation Pyxis.</li><li>Compasses, the constellation Circinus.</li></ul><p><strong>Adjective:</strong></p><ul><li>curved; forming a curve or arc: compass roof.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used with object):</strong></p><ul><li>to go or move round; make the circuit of: It would take a week to compass his property on foot.</li><li>to extend or stretch around; hem in; surround; encircle: An old stone wall compasses their property.</li><li>to attain or achieve; accomplish; obtain: To have compassed this task in the limited time available is no mean achievement.</li><li>to contrive; plot; scheme: to compass a treacherous plan.</li><li>to make curved or circular.</li><li>to comprehend; to grasp, as with the mind: His mind could not compass the extent of the disaster.</li></ul>