fetch away
C1 formal intransitive
In simple words
When something on a ship breaks loose and slides or moves because it wasn't tied down tightly enough.
Literal meaning: To fetch (move) away from its secured position.
Meanings
1 C1 formal
(Nautical) Of cargo, equipment, or fittings: to break loose from their fastenings, especially in rough weather.
"In the storm, several barrels fetched away and rolled across the deck."
Usage notes
Exclusively nautical terminology. Used when referring to cargo, equipment, or fittings that break free from their lashings or fastenings aboard a ship. Not used in everyday conversational English.
Commonly used with
cargo gear anchor line equipment gun
Forms
Base
fetch away
I/you/we/they
3rd person
fetches away
he/she/it
Past simple
fetched away
yesterday
Past participle
fetched away
have + pp
-ing form
fetching away
continuous
Understand "fetch away" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "fetch away" on Looplines