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magnetic needle
Definition
A magnetic needle is a small magnet that is free to rotate on a point. It is used in compasses to point north.
The magnetic needle is made of a material that is easily magnetized, such as iron or steel. The needle is then placed in a liquid, such as alcohol or oil so that it can rotate freely.
The Earth has a magnetic field, and the magnetic needle is attracted to the north and south poles of the Earth's magnetic field. This is why the magnetic needle always points north.
How can the word be used?
The magnetic needle of the compass pointed north.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A small, magnetized needle that is free to pivot on a point and is used to indicate direction, especially in a compass.
Adjective: Describing something that is made of or contains a magnetic needle. For example, you could say "a magnetic needle compass" or "a magnetic needle field".
Verb: To magnetize a needle. For example, you could say "The scientist magnetized the needle" or "The current magnetized the needle".
Etymology
The word "magnetic needle" comes from the noun "needle", which is a thin, pointed instrument used for sewing or for other purposes, and the adjective "magnetic", which describes something that has the properties of a magnet.
The word "magnetic needle" was first used in English in the 16th century. It was originally used to describe the needle of a compass, but it soon came to be used in a more general sense to describe any small, magnetized needle that is free to pivot on a point.
Question
Where might you find a magnetic needle?