Definition
To remove or neutralize a residual magnetic field from an object, typically a steel aircraft component or tool, by exposing it to a controlled, decreasing alternating magnetic field.
Plain English
To get rid of unwanted magnetism left behind in a metal part so it no longer acts like a weak magnet.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft maintenance, especially when dealing with magnetic compasses, steel parts, tools, or equipment that could disturb a compass reading.
Derivation
From 'de-' (to remove) plus 'gauss', the unit of magnetic flux density named after German mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss. Literally: 'remove the gauss', meaning remove the magnetism.
Why Pilots Care
Residual magnetism in aircraft structures can cause compass deviations and navigation errors; degaussing restores accurate heading information.
Analogy
A metal screwdriver can sometimes become magnetized and pick up small screws. Degaussing is like taking away that hidden magnet effect so the screwdriver behaves like ordinary metal again.
Intuition Check
Degauss does not mean adjust or recalibrate a compass. It means remove unwanted magnetism from something that could affect the compass or other equipment.
Example Sentence 1
After the magnetic particle inspection, the technician degaussed the landing gear component before returning it to service.
Example Sentence 2
After degaussing the instrument panel, the deviation errors on the directional gyro were eliminated.