bow-compass, -compasses
(ˈbəʊˌkʌmpəs, -ɪz)
[f. bow n.1 + compass.]
1. A pair of compasses with the legs jointed so that the points can be bent inwards; also applied to any compasses made for drawing small circles. (Commonly called bows; when the legs are kept apart by a spring, spring bows.)
| 1796 Hutton Math. Dict. I. 315/1 Bow Compasses or Bows, are a small sort of compasses, that shut up in a hoop, which serves for a handle. |
2. = bow n.1 10.