about 1 of 3

1
2
as in around
close to about the hedge there was a picket fence

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
as in throughout
in random positions within the boundaries of sparrows hopping about the lawn near the bird feeder

Synonyms & Similar Words

about

2 of 3

adverb

1
as in round
on all sides or in every direction people standing about waiting for a salesclerk to assist them

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2
3
4
5
as in everywhere
in one place and another his garage was a dirty, cluttered place with various tools and engine parts just lying about

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

about

3 of 3

adjective

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of about
Preposition
Our astronomical alignments are about to get better in the coming years. Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2025 But a version of that is what the country is about to try. Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 5 Sep. 2025
Adverb
Jones had no comment when asked about his exchange with Tranquill, instead focusing on the bigger picture. Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 6 Sep. 2025 The game was called shortly thereafter with Richland about to punt. Jordan Neal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Sep. 2025
Adjective
Ron Wood has been a professional journalist in Arkansas for about 40 years. Arkansas Online, 5 Sep. 2025 Cut back the top growth to about 4 inches. Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for about
Recent Examples of Synonyms for about
Preposition
  • Was any decision made regarding reducing Partey’s media obligations?
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 11 July 2025
  • The tragedy is still under investigation but concerns have been raised regarding congested airspace and understaffed air traffic control facilities at Reagan National.
    Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 5 Feb. 2025
Preposition
  • Overmont Oversized Double Camping Chair This Overmont Double Chair is built for snuggling up around the campfire, but it can be used to spread out while solo.
    Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 8 Sep. 2025
  • The ensemble featured a visible black underwire and corset boning at the bust and torso, while the sheer black fabric created an illusion of draping around her bust and the rest of her body.
    Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025
Preposition
  • Danielson said Boomer won the competition at kicker through his fall camp performance, but the coaching staff will continue to evaluate the two players throughout the coming bye week.
    Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Aerial resources assisted these efforts throughout the day as visibility allowed.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 6 Sep. 2025
Adverb
  • It was canceled in the president's 2026 budget proposal, but Congress added Gateway funding back into the mix to the tune of $750 million per year, through fiscal year 2028.
    Josh Dinner, Space.com, 4 Sep. 2025
  • When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 4 Sep. 2025
Adverb
  • At Novant, the upfront cost is almost $3,000 for 24/7 access to a provider through two clinics in the region, Hallmark Care and Traditions Concierge Medicine in Charlotte.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 3 Sep. 2025
  • The eagles' first flights were often clumsy, almost embarrassing affairs, according to Parker.
    Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 3 Sep. 2025
Adverb
  • The earthquake struck at a depth of 8 miles, with its epicenter approximately 4 miles north of Fontana.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 6 Sep. 2025
  • As of Friday, Hurricane Kiko remains a major hurricane located approximately 1,200 miles east-southeast of Hawaii and is forecast to approach the islands as a tropical storm early next week, officials said.
    Jon Haworth, ABC News, 6 Sep. 2025
Adverb
  • As kids head back to class, parents everywhere are stocking up on school supplies, from new backpacks to lunchbox items.
    Chaunie Brusie, Parents, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Ultraslim soles have since popped up everywhere from Louis Vuitton to Adidas—but the OG pair is still our favorite investment of the bunch.
    Amina Ayoud, Glamour, 3 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Two days after becoming aware of it, Christianson met with the police, who were pessimistic on whether the city would be able to get its money back.
    David Clarey, jsonline.com, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Partnerships With Purpose & Impact Partnerships have been a loyalty staple for decades, but the newest wave is more context-aware.
    Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“About.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/about. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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