setting circle

noun

: a graduated scale or wheel on the mounting of an equatorial telescope for indicating right ascension or declination

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of setting circle was in 1869

Rhymes for setting circle

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Browse Nearby Words

setting block
setting circle
setting coat
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Cite this Entry

“Setting circle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/setting%20circle. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

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