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

Tell me one thing only please, and don’t give me the runaround. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 9 June 2025

But at the beginning of 11th grade, a change to his mom’s insurance ended her personal care benefit, sending him into a runaround with his county’s Medicaid office in Minnesota. —Leah Fabel, Miami Herald, 5 June 2025

For more of Cher reading authority figures for filth, here's a great scene opposite Andrew Robinson, another in a string of doctors giving her and Rocky the runaround. —Jordan Hoffman, EW.com, 20 May 2025

Barker has no trouble recalling that game at Anfield, scoring one goal, laying on another two and giving Alexander-Arnold the runaround from start to finish. —Oliver Kay, The Athletic, 8 Feb. 2025

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