Roundabout: meaning, definitions and examples

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roundabout

[ ˈraʊndəˌbaʊt ]

^{Context #1}

traffic flow

A circular road junction in which traffic must travel in one direction around a central island.

Synonyms

carousel, rotary, traffic circle

Examples of usage

Make sure to yield to the traffic already in the roundabout.
I missed my exit because I didn't know which lane to be in at the roundabout.
The roundabout is designed to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents.
The roundabout is easier to navigate than a traditional intersection.
Drivers should signal their intentions when exiting the roundabout.

^{Context #2}

discussion

A discussion that does not lead to a conclusion or decision.

Synonyms

circuitous, indirect, rambling

Examples of usage

We had a roundabout about where to go for dinner, but we still couldn't decide.
The meeting turned into a roundabout with everyone sharing their opinions.
After a long roundabout, we finally came to a consensus.
The debate was long and roundabout, with no clear winner.
Let's try to keep the discussion focused and avoid any roundabouts.

Translations

Translations of the word "roundabout" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rotatória

🇮🇳 राउंडअबाउट

🇩🇪 Kreisverkehr

🇮🇩 bundaran

🇺🇦 кільцева розв'язка

🇵🇱 rondo

🇯🇵 ロータリー

🇫🇷 rond-point

🇪🇸 rotonda

🇹🇷 dönel kavşak

🇰🇷 로터리

🇸🇦 دوار

🇨🇿 kruhový objezd

🇸🇰 kruhový objazd

🇨🇳 环形交叉路口

🇸🇮 krožišče

🇮🇸 hringtorg

🇰🇿 айналма жол

🇬🇪 მრგვალი მოედანი

🇦🇿 dairəvi yol

🇲🇽 glorieta

Word origin

The word 'roundabout' originated in the late 18th century from the combination of 'round' and 'about'. It was initially used to describe a circuitous or indirect route. Over time, it evolved to also refer to circular road junctions. Roundabouts have been used as a traffic management solution since the 1960s, with their popularity growing due to their safety benefits and efficiency in controlling traffic flow.