runaround

noun

run·​around ˈrə-nə-ˌrau̇nd 

1

: deceptive or delaying action especially in response to a request

tired of getting the runaround

2

: matter typeset in shortened measure to run around something (such as a cut)

Examples of runaround in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Fourthly, performance standards ensuring more transparency and accountability must be set for the TTC office, eliminating endless phone wait times, confusing notices, incorrect tax bills, delayed refunds and bureaucratic runaround. —Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 May 2026

Drivers who request an appeal are either automatically denied or given the runaround without being offered an actual appeals process, Liss-Riordan said. —Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 21 Apr. 2026

Also, sorry, bold move for a guy who’s been giving his wife the runaround with an infamous arsonist! —Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 10 Apr. 2026

As a runaround, local leaders in Boise and Salt Lake City adopted new official city flags to run up the pole. —Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 8 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing runaround

• get the runaround
• give (someone) the runaround

Rhymes for runaround

• aboveground
• battleground
• belowground
• paperbound
• turnaround
• ultrasound
• underground
• wraparound
• abound
• aground
• around
• astound

Kids Definition

runaround

noun

run·​around ˈrən-ə-ˌrau̇nd 

: deceptive or delaying action especially in response to a request

Medical Definition

runaround

noun

run·​around ˈrən-ə-ˌrau̇nd 

: a whitlow encircling a fingernail or toenail