Carpenters know how important mensuration is; the saying “measure twice, cut once” reminds woodworkers that an accurate mensuration saves time and material. This noun comes from the Latin word “mensurare,” which means “to measure.” When it came into use, mensuration was different than it is today. The compass was invented in China in the third century, but it came to Europe in the 15th century. However, instead of the 360 degrees used to navigate today, the compass rose marked only 32 points, and the needle pointed to magnetic north, not true north. Mensuration on maps and navigation was much less exact than you would be able to accomplish today.