walk-around

1 of 2

noun (1)

plural -s
1
or walk-round
ˈ⸗ˌ⸗
a
: a number in a blackface minstrel show in which all the performers dance around the stage one at a time often with each performer doing a distinct solo performance on coming to the center of the stage
broadly : a dance number in which the entire company of performers moves in a circle
b
: the music for such a number
his minstrel leader asked him to compose a new walk-around … for use the next dayTime
2
: a circus act in which a clown or group of clowns walk all the way around the arena performing as they go

walk-around bottle

2 of 2

noun (2)

variants or walk-around oxygen bottle or less commonly walk-around oxygen unit or walk-around
plural -s
: a portable container of oxygen for use in high-altitude flying when moving around in the airplane or as an emergency supply if the airplane's oxygen system fails

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

from the phrase walk around

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Walk-around.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/walk-around. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster