magnetic north

noun

: the northerly direction in the earth's magnetic field indicated by the north-seeking pole of a compass needle

Examples of magnetic north in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But why are all these updates necessary, and why doesn’t magnetic north stay in one place? — Mindy Weisberger, CNN, 21 Jan. 2025 The strength of Earth’s magnetic field fluctuates, and, at times, the magnetic north and south poles have flipped. — Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 7 Jan. 2026 Why the magnetic north pole moves around The movement of the magnetic North Pole is the result of the Earth having an active core. — Scott Brame, The Conversation, 16 Dec. 2025 Experts say viewers should travel as far north as possible, towards Earth’s magnetic north pole located in northern Canada. — Zachary Folk, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for magnetic north

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of magnetic north was in 1812

Rhymes for magnetic north

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Browse Nearby Words

magnetic needle
magnetic north
magnetic oxide
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Cite this Entry

“Magnetic north.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magnetic%20north. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

magnetic north

noun
: the northerly direction in the earth's magnetic field indicated by the north-seeking pole of a compass needle
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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