Langimage
English

roundabout

|round/a/bout|

B2

/ˈraʊndəˌbaʊt/

circular path

Etymology
Etymology Information

'roundabout' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'rounde aboute', where 'rounde' meant 'circular' and 'aboute' meant 'around'.

Historical Evolution

'rounde aboute' transformed into the modern English word 'roundabout'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'circular path or route', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'circular intersection'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a circular intersection or junction in which road traffic flows almost continuously in one direction around a central island.

The new roundabout has improved traffic flow in the area.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

indirect or circuitous.

He took a roundabout route to avoid the traffic.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45