a drafting instrument resembling a compass that is used for dividing lines into equal segments or for transferring measurements
instrument with jointed legs for measuring and transferring distances, see article on the dividers.
Two spiked metal arms, joined by a hinge at one end. The spikes are adjusted (moved) to measure off distances on a map.
an instrument for dividing and measuring lines.
a hinged pair of points used for measuring distances or scribing circles
A dividers is a tool used in nautical navigation for measuring distances on the chart. It is very similar in appearance to a drafting compass, the difference being that the compass has a spike on one end and a pencil or other drawing instrument on the other which allos the drawing of circles whereas the dividers have spikes on both ends and is used to measure distances on charts. Often a compass can be fitted with a spike in place of the drawing utensil and thus converted to dividers.