turnabout

noun

turn·​about ˈtərn-ə-ˌbau̇t 

1

a

: a change or reversal of direction, trend, policy, role, or character

b

: a changing from one allegiance to another

c

: turncoat, renegade

d

: an act or instance of retaliating

turnabout is fair play

2

: merry-go-round

Synonyms of turnabout

• reversal

Examples of turnabout in a Sentence

employees regarded the latest turnabout as a sure sign that management hadn't a clue as to what it was doing

Recent Examples on the Web

Since Virginia is one of the few purple states remaining, this sudden turnabout reveals where Democrats and Republicans disagree on higher education. —Andy Smarick, Washington Post, 2 Feb. 2026

The turnabout is particularly evident in the tech sector, where five-day in-office weeks are now commonplace. —Dade Hayes, Deadline, 21 Jan. 2026

Canada’s complicated relationship with China Friday’s deal in Beijing marks a turnabout in Canadian policy. —Paul Wiseman, Los Angeles Times, 17 Jan. 2026

Walz’s announcement marks a stunning turnabout for the Minnesota governor, who less than two years ago was tapped as the 2024 vice presidential nominee and was widely floated as a potential 2028 White House candidate. —Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 5 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing turnabout

• turnabout is fair play

Rhymes for turnabout

• roundabout
• runabout
• sauerkraut
• thereabout
• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout

Kids Definition

turnabout

noun

turn·​about ˈtər-nə-ˌbau̇t 

: a change from one direction or one way of thinking or acting to the opposite