Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
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

Italian Jonathan Milan was expected to be in the frame for the stage win but crashed heavily at a roundabout 1,500m from the end.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

Witnesses have told the BBC that, at its height, 30-50 vehicles were going onto the site near the Over roundabout every day.

From BBC • Jan. 22, 2026

Dunn came to this club in a roundabout way.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 15, 2026

Trey stands on the grassy area that shapes the circular roundabout.

From "Black Brother, Black Brother" by Jewell Parker Rhodes