noun

bearings

machine parts, orientation, location

The machine's bearings are worn out.

The machine's bearings are worn out.

I need a moment to get my bearings.

I need a moment to get my bearings.

get/find/lose one's bearings to figure out/not know one's position or situation I need to get my bearings in this new city.

Synonyms: orientation, location, direction

Plural of 'bearing'. The sense of 'orientation' comes from the navigational term for finding one's direction or 'bearing'.

Imagine being lost and trying to find your 'bearings' on a map to figure out where you are.

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