1 C1 formal
To draw or measure the outline or boundary of an area using a compass or similar instrument.
"The surveyor compasseed out the perimeter of the new estate before construction began."
separable
compass out
C1 formal separable transitive
To measure, draw, or delineate the boundary or extent of something, especially using a compass or similar instrument.
In plain English
To draw the shape or border of something carefully, like using a drawing compass to make a circle.
What does "compass out" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To draw outward using a compass instrument.
Actually means
To draw the shape or border of something carefully, like using a drawing compass to make a circle.
Usage tip
This is a rare and largely archaic phrasal verb, found mainly in historical texts or technical surveying language. Unlikely to be encountered in everyday modern English. Included here for completeness.
Words that pair with "compass out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
boundary area circle territory perimeter
How to conjugate "compass out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
compass out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
compasses out
he/she/it
Past simple
compassed out
yesterday
Past participle
compassed out
have + pp
-ing form
compassing out
continuous
Hear "compass out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "compass out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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