Around

/əˈɹaʊnd/ · preposition

Meaning

Forming a circle or closed curve containing (something)..

Definitions by Sense

1. Forming a circle or closed curve containing (something).
2. (of abstract things) Centred upon; surrounding; regarding.
3. Following the perimeter of a specified area and returning to the starting point.
4. Following a path which curves near an object, with the object on the inside of the curve.
5. Near; in the vicinity of.
6. At or to various places within or throughout.
7. (figurative) So as to avoid something.
8. (informal, predicative only, with the verb "to be") Present in the vicinity.

Example Sentences

She wore a gold chain around her neck.

I planted a row of lilies around the statue.

The jackals began to gather around the carcass.

Ancient nomads, wishing to ward off the evening chill and enjoy a meal around a campfire, had to collect wood and then spend time and effort coaxing the heat of friction out from between sticks to kindle a flame. With more settled people, animals were harnessed to capstans or caged in treadmills to turn grist into meal.

We could use some clarification around the new rules.

There has been a lot of controversy around the handling of personal information.

The use of algorithms in policing is one example of their increasing influence on our lives. And, as their ubiquity spreads, so too does the debate around whether we should allow ourselves to become so reliant on them – and who, if anyone, is policing their use.

We walked around the football field.

Synonyms for around

Antonyms for around

Related Words

Word Forms

• round
• arownd
• ron
• 'round

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions