Synonyms of about-facenext
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

Examples of about-face in a Sentence

the candidate's frequent about-faces on issues disturbs many voters
Recent Examples on the Web
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Landau quickly implemented a strict hierarchy at the agency, requiring subordinates to work up a chain of command before contacting her — an about-face from Frolich’s collaborative approach, attorneys said. Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 27 May 2026 Altman’s apparent about-face comes at a pivotal moment for the AI industry. Rebecca Schneid, Time, 26 May 2026 In 2014, the leagues began a remarkable about-face. Luke Connors, Washington Post, 19 May 2026 In New Zealand, about 60 percent of voters opposed the country’s about-face. Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for about-face

Word History

Etymology

from the imperative phrase about face, from about entry 1 + face entry 2

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of about-face was in 1835

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“About-face.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/about-face. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

about-face

noun
ə-ˈbau̇t-ˈfās
1
: a reversal of direction
2
: a reversal of attitude or point of view
about-face verb

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