# fetch a compass

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/fetch-a-compass
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- We had to fetch a compass to avoid the heavy traffic.
- The main road was blocked, so we had to fetch a compass through the back streets to reach the station.
- Rather than crossing the dangerous mountain pass directly, the weary travelers chose to fetch a compass along the valley floor to ensure their safety.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.