English Reference
Idiom idiom

fetch a compass

Meaning

To make a circuit; to take a circuitous route to a place.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Examples
SIMPLE

“We had to fetch a compass to avoid the heavy traffic.”

CONTEXTUAL

“The main road was blocked, so we had to fetch a compass through the back streets to reach the station.”

COMPLEX

“Rather than crossing the dangerous mountain pass directly, the weary travelers chose to fetch a compass along the valley floor to ensure their safety.”

Anchors to
Related idioms4entries
  1. 01

    all points of the compass

    Every direction; everywhere.

  2. 02

    box the compass

    To make a complete reversal in stance or opinion.

  3. 03

    fetch and carry

    To serve obsequiously.

  4. 04

    fetch way

    To move from the proper place; to come loose.

Last updated August 10, 2026