The crossword answer for “antecedent of the sextant” is ASTROLABE.

Quick Scoop: “Antecedent of the Sextant” Crossword Clue

If you’ve bumped into the clue “antecedent of the sextant” (or “sextant’s predecessor”) in a crossword, the standard answer is ASTROLABE , a historic navigational instrument used before the sextant became common.

Why ASTROLABE fits

  • It’s a classic navigation tool used by astronomers and mariners long before sextants.
  • Crossword databases list ASTROLABE directly as the solution for “Sextant’s predecessor” , which is essentially the same clue as “antecedent of the sextant.”
  • The word length (usually 9 letters) often matches typical grid patterns for this clue.

Mini Background: Sextant vs. Astrolabe

  • A sextant measures angles between celestial objects and the horizon to determine position at sea.
  • An astrolabe was an earlier, more general-purpose astronomical instrument that helped with navigation, timekeeping, and observing stars, making it a natural “antecedent” in both history and crosswords.

So if your crossword is asking for the antecedent of the sextant , confidently fill in: ASTROLABE.

TL;DR:
“Antecedent of the sextant crossword clue” → ASTROLABE.

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