been around

phrase

: gone through many varied experiences : become worldly-wise

He knows what he's talking about; he's been around.

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of been around was in 1872

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Browse Nearby Words

beena marriage

been around

bee nettle

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Been around.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/been%20around. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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