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Definitions

roundabout

[round-uh-bout, round-uh-bout, round-uh-bout] / ˌraʊnd əˈbaʊt, ˈraʊnd əˌbaʊt, ˈraʊnd əˌbaʊt /
ADJECTIVE
indirect
Synonyms
STRONG
circular collateral oblique
WEAK
ambiguous circuitous circumlocutory deviating devious discursive evasive meandering obliquitous periphrastic taking the long way tortuous
Antonyms
STRONG
direct
WEAK
honest straightforward

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Some opera singers hoped that the actor’s jibes might actually prove beneficial for the form in a roundabout way.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

Soaring murals, brightly painted, of smiling crowds dominate building facades around this busy roundabout.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

But Madrid's imposing Victory Arch, built in the 1950s on a busy roundabout to celebrate the victory of Franco's fascist-backed nationalists in the 1936-1939 civil war, is a standout example of the symbols that linger.

From Barron's • Feb. 9, 2026

Dunn came to this club in a roundabout way.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 15, 2026

“Whoa,” I yell as we speed through a roundabout, and I grab the handle as the driver swerves to miss a cyclist.

From "Amina's Song" by Hena Khan

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.