Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Compasses \Com"pass*es\, n., pl.
   An instrument for describing circles, measuring figures,
   etc., consisting of two, or (rarely) more, pointed branches,
   or legs, usually joined at the top by a rivet on which they
   move.

   Note: The compasses for drawing circles have adjustable pen
         points, pencil points, etc.; those used for measuring
         without adjustable points are generally called
         dividers. See {Dividers}.

   {Bow compasses}. See {Bow-compass}.

   {Caliber compasses}, {Caliper compasses}. See {Calipers}.

   {Proportional}, {Triangular}, etc., {compasses}. See under
      {Proportional}, etc.