a method of surveying; the area is divided into triangles and the length of one side and its angles with the other two are measured, then the lengths of the other sides can be calculated
a trigonometric method of determining the position of a fixed point from the angles to it from two fixed points a known distance apart; useful in navigation
appearing or developing early; "precocious flowers appear before the leaves as in some species of magnolias"
characterized by or characteristic of exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude); "a precocious child"; "a precocious achievement"
(law) a formal notice filed with a court or officer to suspend a proceeding until filer is given a hearing; "a caveat filed against the probate of a will"