What does azimuth refer to in navigation?

The term azimuth in navigation is defined as a horizontal angle measured from a North-based line, typically expressed in degrees. This angle indicates the direction of an object or point relative to true north, allowing navigators to determine their bearing in relation to the cardinal directions. By measuring angles from a known reference point, such as true north, azimuth provides crucial information for navigation, helping navigators identify the position of landmarks, celestial bodies, or waypoints.

Other potential definitions, such as measurements for distances, methods of marking trails, or types of weather observations, do not accurately capture the essence of what azimuth denotes in navigation. Instead, azimuth remains a fundamental concept tied closely to orientation and direction-finding within various navigational contexts.