英汉词典

1. 指南针;罗盘
    A compass is an instrument that you use for finding directions. It has a dial and a magnetic needle that always points to the north.

    e.g. We had to rely on a compass and a lot of luck to get here.
           我们不得不依靠指南针和不错的运气找到这儿来。

2. 圆规
    Compasses are a hinged V-shaped instrument that you use for drawing circles.

3. 界限;范围
    If something is within the compass of something or someone, it is within their limits or abilities.

compass是什么意思

    e.g. Within the compass of a normal sized book such a comprehensive survey was not practicable.
           在通常一本书的篇幅中要作如此全面的调查不太实际。