about-face

noun

ə-ˈbau̇t-ˈfās 

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

Synonyms of about-face

• reversal
• volte-face

Examples of about-face in a Sentence

the candidate's frequent about-faces on issues disturbs many voters

Recent Examples on the Web

Yet given the remarkable strength of the Raiders’ schedule and the competition atop the AFC West, such an about-face is unlikely for Las Vegas this season, no matter whom the Raiders add at this time of year. — Sam Warren, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026

The swift about-face marks a stunning defeat for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had championed a plan announced on Tuesday to create a commercial venture to capitalize on its tournaments — including the World Cup and the Club World Cup. — Rafael Nam, NPR, 31 July 2026

However, after re-scrutinizing the legislation, the court performed an about-face. — Julia Buckley, CNN Money, 25 July 2026

In a striking about-face, Janza immediately announced that Slovenia would cancel its previous recognition of Palestine and move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. — Larry Luxner, Sun Sentinel, 20 July 2026

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

Rhymes for about-face

• aerospace
• anatase
• anyplace
• commonplace
• cyberspace
• database
• diabase
• diastase
• dnase
• elastase
• fireplace
• hyperspace

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