How Do You Spell BACKSIGHT?

Pronunciation: [bˈaksa͡ɪt] (IPA)

Backsight is a term commonly used in surveying to refer to a sighting taken on a point of known elevation. The word is spelled with the letter 'k' despite the fact that it's pronounced with a silent 'k' sound. This quirk in the English language is due to its linguistic roots, with the word being derived from the Middle English "baksiȝt" and originally from the Old Norse "bakseyti", which meant "looking back". In IPA phonetics, the word is transcribed as /ˈbæk.saɪt/.

BACKSIGHT Meaning and Definition

  1. Backsight can be defined as a surveying term that refers to the measurement taken to determine the elevation or height of an existing point, also known as a benchmark or reference point, in relation to a known reference elevation. This measurement is usually taken when conducting topographic or construction surveys.

    In practical terms, backsight involves using a leveling device, such as a level or a theodolite, which is positioned at an already established point with a known elevation. This established point is typically a benchmark that has been previously surveyed and accurately measured. The surveyor then aims the instrument at this point and reads the height on the horizontal crosshair or leveling bubble.

    The backsight measurement serves as a starting reference point for determining the relative elevations of other points in the surveying process. By establishing a known and accurate elevation at the start, surveyors can ensure the accuracy and consistency of subsequent measurements taken at different points within the survey area. This is particularly important when creating detailed site plans, constructing buildings or infrastructure, or assessing topographic features of the surrounding landscape.

    In summary, backsight is a crucial step in surveying that involves measuring the elevation of a known benchmark to establish a starting point for subsequent measurements. It plays a fundamental role in ensuring accuracy and consistency in surveying and enables the creation of precise and reliable topographic or construction plans.

Common Misspellings for BACKSIGHT

  • vacksight
  • nacksight
  • hacksight
  • gacksight
  • bzcksight
  • bscksight
  • bwcksight
  • bqcksight
  • baxksight
  • bavksight
  • bafksight
  • badksight
  • bacjsight
  • bacmsight
  • baclsight
  • bacosight
  • bacisight
  • backaight
  • backzight

Etymology of BACKSIGHT

The word "backsight" is derived from the combination of the Middle English word "bak" meaning "back" or "the rear", and the word "sight" meaning "the act or process of seeing".

In the context of surveying or navigation, a "backsight" refers to the sighting of a previously known point or object to establish a reference for further measurements or calculations. It is taken by looking back at the previous point from the new location. The "back" in "backsight" refers to this action of looking back, while "sight" refers to the act of observing or sighting an object.

Similar spelling words for BACKSIGHT

Plural form of BACKSIGHT is BACKSIGHTS

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