about 1 of 3

Definition of aboutnext
1
2
as in around
close to about the hedge there was a picket fence

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
as in throughout
in random positions within the boundaries of sparrows hopping about the lawn near the bird feeder

Synonyms & Similar Words

about

2 of 3

adverb

1
as in round
on all sides or in every direction people standing about waiting for a salesclerk to assist them

Synonyms & Similar Words

2
as in back
toward the opposite direction turned about and saw the dog following him

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3
4
5
as in everywhere
in one place and another his garage was a dirty, cluttered place with various tools and engine parts just lying about

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

about

3 of 3

adjective

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of about
Preposition
The city's homeless committee has been working with Mejia to learn more about the issue and is working together to implement the Safe Grounds Project. Charlie Lapastora, CBS News, 9 June 2026 The city of Durham enacted a 60-day moratorium in May after residents also cited concerns about environmental impacts. Mary Ramsey updated June 8, Charlotte Observer, 9 June 2026
Adverb
Tinajani, a six-room lodge centered around an old homestead on a former sheep farm, is set at a height of about 12,000 feet above sea level in the Altiplano. Todd Plummer, Robb Report, 19 June 2026 However, at the new $230 million facility right next door, CSU will be able to enroll about 20% more students every year and educate the next generation of vets. Ashley Portillo, CBS News, 19 June 2026
Adjective
If rumors are true, Seed is about to stage likely the most high-profile wedding of his career. Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026 That is about to become much harder, thanks to the directions of new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh. Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for about
Recent Examples of Synonyms for about
Preposition
  • Metro Police detectives are continuing to investigate the shooting, and are in contact with the District Attorney’s Office regarding charging decisions.
    Vivian Jones, Nashville Tennessean, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Was any decision made regarding reducing Partey’s media obligations?
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 11 July 2025
Preposition
  • Olivia Taylor, the assistant manager of the swim school, says clearing up misconceptions about what drowning actually looks like and getting anyone comfortable in and around the water, are some of the most important parts of teaching someone how to swim.
    Monique John, CBS News, 24 June 2026
  • The suspects accused of plotting an attack on the UFC fight at the White House allegedly planned to deploy drones armed with explosives around the event, forcing the crowd to evacuate before they would be targeted by sniper fire, court records said.
    Christopher Cann, USA Today, 24 June 2026
Preposition
  • Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told Fox News Digital that investigators and the FBI have examined numerous ransom communications throughout the case, with some determined to be fraudulent and others considered potentially credible.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
  • While earlier concepts called for flip-up chairback seating throughout the stadium, engineers determined the historic venue's existing structure could not accommodate those seats without significantly reducing capacity or requiring major reconstruction.
    CBS News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 24 June 2026
Adverb
  • The pathologist documented extensive bruising and hemorrhage involving Joanna’s abdomen, flanks, back, buttocks, thighs and lower extremities, according to the affidavit.
    Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 June 2026
  • Other food available at the fair includes a Turkey Leg that costs $23, a Smash Cheeseburger that will set patrons back $20 and a Giant Western Sausage that sells $20.
    Zac Anderson, USA Today, 25 June 2026
Adverb
  • There were 3,000 people on the plaza at the June 18 Obama Presidential Center grand opening ceremony, with almost too many celebrities to count.
    Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 19 June 2026
  • When most pieces share a palette, almost any top works with almost any bottom, so a dozen items can cover dozens of looks.
    Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 19 June 2026
Adverb
  • The Emergency Operations Center said in a statement that the approximately 1,690 guests staying at the resort were evacuated to other hotels and nearby housing facilities.
    Faris Tanyos, CBS News, 20 June 2026
  • There are approximately 10 uses per bag.
    ABC News, ABC News, 20 June 2026
Adverb
  • So Bauer heads back to Mexico City, continuing a journey that has taken him everywhere except the bigs.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
  • The bacteria that cause tetanus are everywhere in our environment and cannot be eliminated, which is why staying up to date on vaccination is so important.
    Faye Chiu, CNN Money, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • The broad genre of pop also gives artists room to experiment, said O’Brien, adding that audiences these days are well aware of the concept of eras and understand artists will go through multiple ones throughout their careers.
    Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
  • After clearing logjams in the White House and House of Representatives, the legislation drew broad support in an election year where both parties are increasingly aware that voters have said they're fed up with the high cost of living.
    Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“About.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/about. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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