Navigation

Definition

Navigation is the process or activity of accurately ascertaining one's position and planning and following a route.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌnævɪˈɡeɪʃən/
• Respelling: NAV-i-GAY-shuhn (with "NAV" as in "naval," "i" as in "sit," "GAY" as in "gay," and "shuhn" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌnævɪˈɡeɪʃən/
• Respelling: NAV-i-GAY-shuhn (similar to American English, with "NAV" as in "naval," "i" as in "sit," "GAY" as in "gay," and "shuhn" as in "nation")

In both dialects, "navigation" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "GAY." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "NAV-i-GAY-shuhn."

Etymology

The term "navigation" stems from the Latin "navigatio," derived from "navigare" meaning "to sail," which itself originates from "navis" meaning "ship" and "agere" meaning "to drive."

Derivatives

• Navigational
• Navigator
• Navigate
• Navigability
• Navigably

Synonyms

• Piloting
• Steering
• Sailing

Antonyms

• None

Usage

"Navigation" typically describes the process or skill involved in determining a course or direction for a journey, especially over water or through the air.

• Advanced navigation systems have made it easier for pilots to fly in adverse weather conditions.
• The captain took a course in celestial navigation to guide the ship without relying on modern equipment.
• With the advent of smartphones, navigation apps have become indispensable for drivers.

Related Terms

• Compass
• GPS (Global Positioning System)
• Chart
• Waypoint
• Sextant

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Process of Traveling Over Water or Air: The skill or activity of determining a course, direction, or position for a journey, especially over water or through the air.‍
• Example: Mariners in ancient times relied on stars for navigation.

• System or Tool to Assist in Directional Guidance: A system or device that provides information, maps, and directions to assist in traveling from one location to another.‍
• Example: The car's navigation system kept us on the right track throughout the trip.

• Structure for Directing Web or Application Users: The arrangement, system, or structure, typically including menus or tabs, that directs or assists users in moving through a website or software application.‍
• Example: The website's navigation bar provides easy access to all main sections.‍