navigator
/ˈnævɪˌɡeɪtər/
NOUN
1. Person responsible for plotting and directing a course
An officer, crew member, or individual tasked with planning, calculating, and determining the course and position of a ship, aircraft, or vehicle.
1.1. Maritime, aviation, and vehicular navigation
Used when referring to professional crew members, pilots, or mariners responsible for directional guidance and steering.
Synonyms
Examples
- The navigator skillfully guided the ship through the treacherous waters.
- As a seasoned navigator, she could read the stars to determine their position.
- The airplane's navigator plotted a course that avoided the storm.
Related Words
- able seaman
- crewman
- deckhand
- seafarer
- seaman
NOUN
2. Explorers and voyagers
Someone who travels across uncharted waters or lands to discover new regions.
2.1. Maritime exploration and discovery
Used historically to describe explorers who led expeditions across oceans and unknown territories.
Synonyms
- circumnavigator
- explorer
- pathfinder
- pioneer
- voyager
Examples
- In ancient times, a good navigator was crucial for successful long-distance voyages.
Related Words
- expedition
- voyage
NOUN
3. Device or hardware for guidance
An electronic instrument or system used to guide vehicles, missiles, or travelers along a route.
3.1. GPS and guidance technology
Used when referring to computerized mapping devices, GPS units, or automated directional systems in cars or planes.
Synonyms
- autopilot
- direction finder
- GPS
- guidance system
- plotter
Examples
- He relied on his GPS navigator to find the fastest route to his destination.
Related Words
- hardware
- software
NOUN
4. User interface element for browsing structures
A software interface tool, menu, or set of controls that allows users to explore and move through a website, app, or document structure.
4.1. Digital design and software interfaces
Used when describing site menus, navigation bars, breadcrumbs, or tools that help users browse digital content.
Synonyms
- browser
- directory
- interface
- menu
- nav bar
Examples
- The website's built-in navigator helps users easily jump between different product sections.
Related Words
- app
- website
NOUN
5. Laborer on civil engineering projects
A historical term for a manual laborer who worked on major construction projects such as canals, railways, and roads (commonly shortened to 'navvy').
5.1. Historical civil engineering and construction
Used historically to describe laborers who dug canals and railways during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Synonyms
Examples
- Teams of navigators worked long hours with rudimentary tools to dig the new canal network.