gyroscope
Syllabification: (gy·ro·scope)
Pronunciation: /ˈjīrəˌskōp/
Definition of gyroscope
noun
- a device consisting of a wheel or disk mounted so that it can spin rapidly about an axis that is itself free to alter in direction. The orientation of the axis is not affected by tilting of the mounting; so gyroscopes can be used to provide stability or maintain a reference direction in navigation systems, automatic pilots, and stabilizers.
Derivatives
Pronunciation: /ˌjīrəˈskäpik/
adjective
Pronunciation: /ˌjīrəˈskäpik(ə)lē/
adverb
Origin:
mid 19th century: from French, from Greek guros 'a ring' + modern Latin scopium (see -scope)