rhizoverbBeta
DictionarynavigationFinding and following a route
noun

navigation

nav-ih-GAY-shuhn/ˌnævɪˈɡeɪʃn/

Planning or directing a route from place to place.

The chart and compass support navigation along the ship's plotted route.

Wordless nautical chart, compass and a plotted route corresponding to a ship visible beyond, no letters or numerals.
Etymology
navigLatinto sail, steer a ship
+ationLatinact or process

The action noun first named movement on water in vessels, then the art of directing their course. That shift from traveling to guiding explains its use for planning and following a route.

In context

TED4:48
Yet we also know that even the most sophisticated navigation technologies require accurate data about where we truly stand.
The Spiritual Wisdom We Need for a Planet in Crisis | Tariq Al-Olaimy | TED

More examples

  • Fog makes navigation difficult for the ship's crew.
  • We use a compass for navigation when hiking.
  • The app's simple menus make navigation easy.

Forms

navigate verb — Find or direct a route through something.

navigator noun — A person who plans or directs routes.

Similar words

wayfinding
Emphasizes finding a route using signs or landmarks.
piloting
Specifically involves directing a ship or aircraft along its course.