Navigation
nav-ih-GAY-shun
/ˌnævɪˈɡeɪʃən/
nounB2TOEFLIELTS
generaltechnical
The process or activity of accurately ascertaining one's position and planning and following a route.
It encompasses both the act of finding one's way and the system or science used to do so, whether by sea, air, or land.
The story behind the word. The word 'navigation' sails into English from the Latin verb 'navigare,' which means 'to sail' or 'to go by sea.' This, in turn, comes from 'navis,' the Latin word for 'ship.' Originally, it was all about guiding ships across the oceans. Over time, as humans took to the skies and even space, the meaning expanded to encompass finding one's way and plotting courses for any vehicle, whether by land, air, or sea. It's still about steering a course!
Word relationships
- guidance: Often implies external direction, whereas navigation can be self-directed.
- piloting: Specific to operating an aircraft or ship, often involving navigation.
- disorientation: Loss of sense of direction or position.
- wandering: Moving aimlessly without a clear route.
Commonly confused with
- driving: Driving is the act of operating a vehicle; navigation is the act of planning and following a route for that vehicle.
Word family
- navigate (verb): to plan and direct the route or course of a ship, aircraft, or other form of transport
- navigator (noun): a person who plans and directs the route of a ship, aircraft, or other form of transport
Collocations
- satellite navigation
- air navigation
- marine navigation
- celestial navigation
- navigation system
Example sentences
- "Advanced GPS systems are essential for precise navigation of aircraft, especially in complex airspace." Aviation
- "The car's satellite navigation system guided us through the unfamiliar city with turn-by-turn directions." Everyday use
Memory hook
Think of a 'NAVIGATOR' on a 'NAVY' ship, planning the route. Route Planning
When not to use
Do not use 'navigation' for simple movement without a specific route or destination in mind. It implies a directed journey.
Fun facts
- Early navigation relied on celestial bodies like the sun and stars, as well as landmarks.
- The invention of the compass, sextant, and later GPS revolutionized navigation.
Related words
Explore more words
navigate, cartography, orientation, survey, waypoint, maritime
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