magnetic: adj. 1 a having the properties of a magnet. b producing, produced by, or acting by magnetism. 2 capable of being attracted by or acquiring the properties of a magnet. 3 very attractive or alluring (a magnetic personality). ømagnetic compass = COMPASS 1. magnetic disk see DISC . magnetic equator an imaginary line, near the equator, on which a magnetic needle has no dip. magnetic field a region of variable force around magnets, magnetic materials, or current-carrying conductors. magnetic inclination = DIP n. 8. magnetic mine a submarine mine detonated by the proximity of a magnetized body such as that of a ship. magnetic moment the property of a magnet that interacts with an applied field to give a mechanical moment. magnetic needle a piece of magnetized steel used as an indicator on the dial of a compass and in magnetic and electrical apparatus, esp. in telegraphy. magnetic north the point indicated by the north end of a compass needle. magnetic pole 1 each of the points near the extremities of the axis of rotation of the earth or another body where a magnetic needle dips vertically. 2 each of the regions of an artificial or natural magnet, from which the magnetic forces appear to originate. magnetic storm a disturbance of the earth's magnetic field caused by charged particles from the sun etc. magnetic tape a tape coated with magnetic material for recording sound or pictures or for the storage of information. øømagnetically adv. [LL magneticus (as MAGNET)]