pole-¹ Either of the two points of intersection of the surface of a sphere or ellipsoid and its axis. ² A magnetic pole. ³ The origin of measurement of distance in polar or spherical coordinates. ⁴ My point around which something centers, as the ice pole, the center of the more consolidated portion of the arctic ice pack. ⁵ A unit of length equal to 5.5 yards or 16.5 feet. Also called rod, perch. ⁶ A long, slender rod, as of timber or metal. Such a rod used for sounding is called a sounding pole. Any pole of the Earth is a terrestrial pole.

pole, celestial—Either of the two points of intersection of the celestial sphere and the extended axis of the Earth, labeled N or S to indicate the north or the south celestial pole, respectively.

pole, magnetic—Either of the poles of a magnet; specifically either of two spots on the Earth’s surface toward which the compass needle points from any direction throughout adjacent regions, and at which the needle dips vertically. These spots are known, respectively, as the North (approximately N. lat. 73° 35′, W. long. 92° 20′) and the South (approximately S. lat. 70°, E. long. 148°). Isogonic lines converge at them and isoclinic lines encircle them.

polestar—See Polaris; pointers.

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Source: NSPS “Definitions of Surveying and Related Terms“, used with permission.

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