2 syllables: Com, pass. Stress on Com.
KUHM-puhs
/ˈkʌmpəs/
Compass is pronounced KUHM-puhs (/ˈkʌmpəs/). It has two syllables (Com-pass), with the stress on "Com". Compass (noun) refers to a device that shows directions or a tool for determining position relative to the Earth, typically a magnetic needle in a circular housing. It can also mean a range or scope of influence, or a tool used to guide actions. In everyday speech, it often denotes the directional instrument or metaphorical guidance in planning.
nounCompass (noun) refers to a device that shows directions or a tool for determining position relative to the Earth, typically a magnetic needle in a circular housing. It can also mean a range or scope of influence, or a tool used to guide actions. In everyday speech, it often denotes the directional instrument or metaphorical guidance in planning.
How to Pronounce Compass
"I checked the compass to confirm which way we should walk."
"Her research explored the compass of the artist's influence across cultures."
"We mapped the route within the compass of the park's walking trails."
You say COMP-ass, with primary stress on the first syllable. IPA: US /ˈkəmˌpæs/; UK /ˈkɒm.pæs/; AU /ˈkɒm.pæs/. The second syllable is a quick, light 'p' followed by 'æs'. It sounds like two syllables, with a subtle secondary stress pattern often heard as /ˈkəmˌpæs/ in connected speech. Visualize 'compass' as two beats: COMP-ASS, and avoid turning the second syllable into a heavy drawl.
Two common errors: 1) Flattening the first vowel: many non-native speakers say /ˈkæmpəs/ or /ˈkɔmpəs/. Correct vowel is /ə/ in the first syllable (schwa) or a short /ɒ/ in British speakers, depending on dialect. 2) Over-emphasizing the second syllable: avoid a long ‘ass’; keep it short, sounding /pæs/ with a crisp /p/. Practice by isolating /kə/ or /ɒm/ then quickly transition to /pæs/.
US: /ˈkə-mˌpæs/ with a reduced first syllable and a light secondary stress. UK: /ˈkɒm.pæs/ with a stronger short 'o' (lot/voc) and a crisper /pæs/. AU: typically /ˈkɒm.pæs/ similar to UK, but listeners may hear a slightly broader vowel; some speakers may reduce to /ˈkɒm.pəs/ in rapid speech. Overall: rhoticity is minimal in UK/AU, more rhotic-like in some US dialects depending on speaker.
Because of the diphthongal or short vowel in the first syllable and the quick transition to the final /pæs/. The first syllable can be pronounced with a neutral /ə/ (schwa) in American speech or a short /ɒ/ in British speech, making the word feel abrupt. The /p/ is unreleased in natural speech, and the final /æ/ quality can be short and clipped. These subtle shifts challenge learners, especially when audio cues are fast.
Compass contains a light secondary stress on the second syllable only when clearly emphasizing the term in a longer phrase; otherwise, it tends toward a single primary beat. Mouth position: start with a relaxed jaw, neutral lips for /k/ and /ə/; quickly close for /p/ with complete release into /æ/ or /ɒ/ depending on accent. IPA nuances: US /ˈkə mˌpæs/ vs UK /ˈkɒm.pæs/; watch intonation when used in phrases like 'within the compass of'.
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Compass comes from the Middle English word compromas, from Old French compas, from Latin compās meaning ‘measuring by a pair of arms’ (com- ‘together’ + passus ‘a step’). The instrument named for its use in measuring angles and directions evolved from geometric compasses used for drawing circles and measuring distances. Early navigational compasses relied on lodestone magnets; the term broadened to include devices for navigation and orientation. By the 14th–15th centuries, the magnetic compass became essential for seafaring, and metaphorical uses—denoting scope or range—emerged in English. First known use in this sense traces to the 15th century, with figurative extensions in literature describing the breadth of influence or reach.
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💡 These words have similar meanings to "Compass" and can often be used interchangeably.
🔄 These words have opposite meanings to "Compass" and show contrast in usage.
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Words that rhyme with "Compass"
-ic) sounds
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