about-face
about–face
noun \ə-ˈbau̇t-ˈfās\Definition of ABOUT-FACE
1
: a 180° turn to the right from the position of attention
2
: a reversal of direction
3
: a reversal of attitude, behavior, or point of view
— about–face intransitive verb
See Origin of ABOUT-FACE
from the imperative phrase about face
First Known Use: 1861
Related to ABOUT-FACE
Synonyms: about-turn [British], flip-flop, reversal, turnabout, turnaround, U-turn, volte-face, change of heart
Related Words: bait and switch, switcheroo; denial, disaffirmance, disavowal, disownment, recantation, renunciation, repudiation, retraction; reconsideration, retreat, second thought; hesitation, indecision, irresolution, shilly-shallying, vacillation, wavering, wobbling (also wabbling)
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