noun
- Plural of alidade; a surveying instrument consisting of a sighting device (telescope or open sights) mounted on a ruler, used to measure angles and distances on maps or in the field.
Usage: technical; surveying and mapping
Examples
- The surveyor used alidades to map the boundaries of the property.
- Modern alidades are often equipped with digital displays for precise angle measurement.
- The team carried several alidades to the field site for the topographic survey.
- Alidades mounted on theodolites help surveyors sight distant landmarks accurately.