Compass etymology

English

English word compass comes from Old French compasser (To compass (measure with a compass).)

Etymology of compass

Detailed word origin of compass

Dictionary entry Language Definition
compasser Old French (fro) To compass (measure with a compass).
compassen Middle English (enm)
compass English (en) (obsolete) In a circuit; round about. (dated) To accomplish; to reach; to achieve; to obtain.. (dated) To plot; to scheme (against someone).. To go about or round entirely; to traverse.. To surround; to encircle; to environ; to stretch round.