Gim'bal, n.

n. [See GEMEL-RING.] A contrivance for securing free motion in suspension, or for suspending any thing, as a chronometer, ship’s compass, marine barometer, &c., so that it may keep a constant position, or remain in equilibrium unaffected by the motion of connected bodies, or the rolling of a ship. It consists of a ring, within which the suspended body turns on an axis through the diameter, while the ring itself turns on another axis at right angles to the first, by means of pivots resting in an outer ring, or other means of support.