Definitions for: Theodolite


[n] a surveying instrument for measuring horizontal and vertical angles, consisting of a small telescope mounted on a tripod



Webster (1913) Definition: The*od"o*lite, n. [Probably a corruption of the
alidade. See Alidade.]
An instrument used, especially in trigonometrical surveying,
for the accurate measurement of horizontal angles, and also
usually of vertical angles. It is variously constructed.

Note: The theodolite consists principally of a telescope,
with cross wires in the focus of its object glass,
clamped in Y's attached to a frame that is mounted so
as to turn both on vertical and horizontal axes, the
former carrying a vernier plate on a horizontal
graduated plate or circle for azimuthal angles, and the
latter a vertical graduated arc or semicircle for
altitudes. The whole is furnished with levels and
adjusting screws and mounted on a tripod.

Synonyms: transit

See Also: alidad, alidade, surveying instrument, surveyor's instrument, tacheometer, tachymeter

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