Also means
reliable guide (figurative)
Usage Note
Nordstern (Polaris) is used both literally for navigation and figuratively for something that gives a fixed bearing. Am Nordstern orientieren means to use it to find north without a compass.
Examples
"Früher orientierten sich Seeleute am Nordstern, wenn sie nachts auf See waren."
Natural Translation
In the past, sailors used the North Star to navigate when they were at sea at night.
Literal Translation
Earlier oriented-themselves sailors on-the North-Star, when they at night on sea were.
Related Words
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