Definition
A unit of angular measurement used in aviation to express headings, courses, bearings, radials, wind direction, latitude and longitude, and temperature. A full circle contains 360 degrees, and the symbol for degrees is °.
Plain English
A standard unit for measuring angles and direction. In flying, it is how we describe which way the aircraft is pointing, which way the wind is blowing, or where a point lies on the Earth.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation notices, charts, weather information, and other abbreviated pilot information where space is limited.
Derivation
From the Latin 'de-' (down) and 'gradus' (step). A degree was originally a 'step down' in a series — one step of 360 around a full circle. This is why degrees describe small, even divisions of direction or position.
Why Pilots Care
Accurate degree references are essential for navigation, instrument flying, and coordinated flight; even small errors can produce large track deviations or unsafe attitudes.
Intuition Check
Do not read DEGS as school degrees or qualifications. In aviation abbreviations, DEGS means measured degrees, usually for direction, position, or temperature.
Example Sentence 1
ATC instructed the pilot to fly a heading of 180 degrees and maintain 5,000 feet.
Example Sentence 2
Apply 20 DEGS of bank and hold altitude during the standard-rate turn.