waywiser /ˈweɪˌwaɪ.zɚ/ noun3 •An instrument for measuring distance travelled, such as an odometer, pedometer, perambulator, etc.I went to see Colonel Blount, who showed me the application of the "Waywiser" to a coach, exactly measuring the miles and showing them by an index as we went along. — 1656 •An instrument for determining direction (and possibly other aspects of one's travel as well).THE Waywiser is an instrument whereby a man may steer himself where there is no path, or underground, in a mine; or find his way if he have lost it. — 1859 •(figurative) A guide; A means of determining the direction in which to proceed.We have not sought to make a treatise, but only to set up a waywiser or signpost to show the road the law is taking . — 1931 formswaywisers
