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brújula means compass — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 12, 2026

✈️ Travel Spanish

brújula

noun • /[BROO-hoo-lah]/

compass

Example:

La brújula nos ayudó a encontrar el camino.

The compass helped us find the way.

🧠 What does brújula mean?

A brújula is an instrument used for navigation and orientation that shows direction relative to the geographic cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west). It typically consists of a magnetized needle or other element, such as a card or a liquid-filled capsule, that can pivot freely. The needle aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field, pointing towards magnetic north. While modern GPS devices are common for navigation, a brújula remains a reliable backup tool, especially in situations where electronic devices may fail or have limited signal. It is essential for hikers, sailors, pilots, and anyone exploring unfamiliar terrain.

📚 Extra examples

  • Necesito una brújula para encontrar el camino de regreso al campamento.
    I need a compass to find my way back to the campsite.
  • El marinero usaba la brújula para mantenerse en el rumbo correcto.
    The sailor used the compass to stay on the correct course.
  • Asegúrate de llevar una brújula y un mapa si vas a hacer senderismo en las montañas.
    Make sure to bring a compass and a map if you are going hiking in the mountains.
  • Con la tecnología actual, la brújula puede parecer obsoleta, pero sigue siendo un instrumento vital.
    With current technology, the compass might seem obsolete, but it remains a vital instrument.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'brújula' is thought to derive from the name of a region in Italy called Bruguoli, where compasses were historically manufactured.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "brújula"

Synonyms: compás

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'compass' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'compass' is brújula.
How do you pronounce 'brújula' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'brújula' is approximately 'broo-HOO-lah'. The 'b' is pronounced similar to the English 'b', the 'r' is a tapped 'r', 'ú' is a stressed 'oo' sound, 'j' sounds like the 'h' in 'hat', and 'la' is pronounced as in English.
How do you use 'brújula' in a sentence?
A brújula is used to indicate direction. For example, 'La brújula señala el norte.' (The compass points north.) or 'Perdimos la brújula y nos desorientamos.' (We lost the compass and became disoriented.)
What is the English translation of 'brújula'?
The English translation of 'brújula' is 'compass'.
Does 'brújula' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'brújula' is a feminine noun. In the singular form, it is 'la brújula'. In the plural form, it becomes 'las brújulas'.
Is 'brújula' common in everyday Spanish?
While not used daily by most people, 'brújula' is a common and well-understood word, especially in contexts related to travel, outdoors, and navigation. Its usage is more frequent for those with an interest in hiking, sailing, or geography.
Does 'brújula' have slang or double meanings?
The word 'brújula' itself does not typically have slang or common double meanings in standard Spanish. Its primary and most understood meaning refers to the navigational instrument.
Is 'brújula' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The term 'brújula' is standard and universally understood across both Spain and Latin America for the navigational instrument. There are no significant regional variations in its primary meaning or usage.

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