fetch
Go get something and bring it back.
Updated September 21, 2026
fetch pronunciation
/FECH/
Meaning
The chore word. Mama says fetch the water, fetch the doctor, fetch that wrench off the truck seat. It is not fancy. It means leave, grab it, and come back with it. In Southern and Appalachian houses the verb never went out of fashion the way it did in a lot of city talk. Auction talk also uses fetch for what something will sell for.
How folks use it
- “Go fetch me a bucket of water from the spring.”
- “That old tractor might fetch a fair price if we clean it up.”
Origin and etymology
From Old English fetian, to bring. Once ordinary everywhere in English. Much of modern American speech switched to get or bring, but rural Southern and mountain talk kept fetch as daily command talk. Ozark and Appalachian "mountain talk" lists still put it next to fixin' and fur piece.
Frequently asked questions
Is fetch only for dogs?
No. Dogs fetch sticks. People fetch tools, water, and help. Same verb, different errand.