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
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.
The about-face in policy reflects a tension between the ideological belief that not creating moral hazard was the most important policy goal. Teresa Ghilarducci, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 In an about-face, the Trump administration ordered ICE to scale back raids and arrests targeting farms, eateries and hotels — industries reliant on immigrant labor, according to an internal email and three officials with knowledge of the guidance cited by The New York Times on Friday. Ray Sanchez, CNN Money, 15 June 2025 In an about-face from last year, no one seems to be pining for the Mets to deal McNeil, who is under contract through next year with a club option for 2027 ($15.75 million both years). Will Sammon, New York Times, 15 June 2025 The president's comments expressing disappointment with Musk were a swift about-face. Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 5 June 2025 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 26 Jun. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on about-face

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