Compass rose
A figure on a map or chart that displays compass directions, often with points marking cardinal and intermediate directions.
Cardinal direction: One of the four primary compass directions: north, east, south, or west. These four directions form the compass rose’s basic framework.
Wind rose: A diagram showing the frequency or strength of winds from different directions at a location. Its radial form resembles a compass rose but represents observed winds.
Magnetic compass: A device that uses a magnetized needle to indicate direction relative to Earth’s magnetic field. The compass rose’s directional scheme grew alongside magnetic navigation.
Nautical chart: A map designed for marine navigation, showing coastal features, water depths, hazards, and aids to navigation. Nautical charts commonly use compass roses to support bearing-based travel.
Graticule: A network of latitude and longitude lines drawn on a map or globe. A graticule locates places by coordinates rather than displaying compass points.
Intercardinal direction: A direction midway between two cardinal directions, such as northeast or southwest. These directions add intermediate points between the rose’s main axes.
Magnetic declination: The angle between magnetic north and true north at a particular place and time. Declination explains why a chart’s north reference may differ from a compass reading.
Chinese compass: Early Chinese devices that used magnetic materials to indicate direction. Chinese magnetic direction-finding predates the compass rose’s widespread European chart use.
Topographic map: A map representing terrain and human-made features, often with contour lines for elevation. Its orientation symbol helps users relate mapped features to ground directions.
Map legend: A key explaining the symbols and conventions used on a map. The legend explains map symbols, while the rose specifically encodes orientation.