Phrase guide

box the compass

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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  • /bɒks ðə ˈkʌmpəs/
  • Australia: Recorded audio is listed in the source snapshot.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To know, and demonstrate by reciting, the 32 points and quarter points of the magnetic compass from North or East, both clockwise and anticlockwise.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Topics: nautical, transport

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To make a complete reversal in stance or opinion.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

5 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: luetella ilmansuunnat — To recite the points of the compass
  • Spanish: cuartear la aguja — To recite the points of the compass
  • Finnish: kääntää kelkkansa — To make a complete reversal
  • Finnish: kääntää takkinsa — To make a complete reversal
  • French: virer de bord — To make a complete reversal