Definitions for: Binnacle

[n] a nonmagnetic housing for a ship's compass (usually in front of the helm)

Webster (1913) Definition: Bin"na*cle, n. [For bittacle, corrupted (perh. by
influence of bin) fr. Pg. bitacola binnacle, fr. L.
habitaculum dwelling place, fr. habitare to dwell. See
Habit, and cf. Bittacle.] (Naut.)
A case or box placed near the helmsman, containing the
compass of a ship, and a light to show it at night. --Totten.

See Also: housing