ETYM For bittacle, corrupted (perh. by influence of bin) from Portu. bitacola binnacle, from Latin habitaculum dwelling place, from habitare to dwell. Related to Habit, Bittacle.
A nonmagnetic housing for a ship's compass (usually in front of the helm).
Case in which a ship's compass is kept.
Fixed case or stand for ship's compass. binnacle list, list of sick men on man-of-war.