n. An instrument for indicating the hour of the day by means of a shadow thrown upon a graduated surface. For dials with a style or gnomon, see sun-dial; for portable dials, see ring-dial, poke-dial, and solarium.n. The face of a clock or watch, upon which the hours and minutes are marked, and over which the hands move.n. Hence A timepiece of any kind; a clock or watch.n. Any plate or face on which a pointer or an index moves, marking revolutions, pressure, etc., according to the nature of the machinery of which it forms part: as, the dial of a steamgage, gas-meter, or telegraphic instrument.n. In telegraphy and horology, an insulated stationary wheel exhibiting upon its face letters, numerals, or other characters.n. The lettered or numbered face-plate of a permutation-lock.n. A mariners' compass.n. In mining, a compass or graduated circle with a magnetic needle, arranged for underground surveying where great accuracy is not required. [Eng.]n. A lapidaries' instrument for holding a gem while it is being cut. It carries the dot to which the gem is directly fixed.To measure with or as if with a dial; indicate upon or as if upon a dial.In mining, to survey with the aid of the dial or miners' compass, as a mine or underground workings.n. The commercial name for the best grade of kaurigum.n. An abbreviation of dialectn. of dialectal, dialectic, or dialectical.