Roundabout: meaning, definitions and examples

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roundabout

 

[ ˈraʊndəˌbaʊt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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 | Noun

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

Etymology

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.

See also: around, round, roundaboutly, roundball, rounded, roundel, roundness, rounds.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,881, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.