How Do You Spell RUNAROUND?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈʌnɐɹˌa͡ʊnd] (IPA)

The word "runaround" is spelled with six letters, but its pronunciation may seem more complex. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is transcribed as /ˈrʌn.ə.raʊnd/. The first syllable "run" is pronounced as the word "fun" with an "r" in the beginning. The second syllable "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "cat" and the stress is on the second syllable. The final syllable "round" is pronounced as "round" with stress on the first syllable. Despite its simple spelling, the word "runaround" has a somewhat intricate pronunciation.

RUNAROUND Meaning and Definition

1. The term "runaround" refers to a series or set of evasive, misleading, or intentionally confusing actions or responses that are used to avoid addressing an issue, problem, or request directly. It is often used in informal contexts to describe a situation where someone is given the runaround when seeking information or resolving a matter.

   The runaround can manifest in different ways, such as excessively transferring phone calls, redirecting inquiries without providing a satisfactory answer, or making false promises of action. This tactic is typically employed to frustrate or confuse the individual seeking resolution, leaving them with the feeling of being ignored or deceived.

   The use of runaround can occur in various scenarios, including customer service interactions, bureaucratic processes, or personal relationships. It is often associated with inefficiency, lack of transparency, or a deliberate intention to obscure the truth.

   Being given the runaround can result in feelings of exasperation, helplessness, or even distrust towards the party providing the runaround. It can be a frustrating experience, as the individual is left without a clear resolution or direction.

   In summary, the term "runaround" encompasses a deceptive or evasive set of actions or responses that are intended to deflect or avoid addressing a matter directly. It is used to describe situations in which individuals feel ignored, deceived, or frustrated due to the lack of clarity or resolution provided.

2. A superficial paronychia.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for RUNAROUND

• raparound
• raround
• trunaround
• runroun
• pularound
• Runaraund

Etymology of RUNAROUND

The word "runaround" dates back to the early 20th century and has its origins in American English slang. It derives from the combination of two words: "run" and "around".

"Run" refers to the action of moving swiftly or quickly, while "around" denotes moving in a circular or random manner. The word "around" in this context implies a sense of confusion or lack of direction. When these two words are combined, "runaround" emerged as a term to describe the act of being deceived, misled, or given evasive or unhelpful answers.

Over time, "runaround" gained popularity as a noun, typically used to describe a series of futile or evasive actions in order to avoid a direct answer, solve a problem, or complete a task. It is often associated with bureaucratic or customer service situations where individuals encounter obstacles or delays without any substantive progress.

Idioms with the word RUNAROUND

• give sb the runaround The idiom "give someone the runaround" means to purposely provide confusing, unhelpful or evasive responses to someone's inquiries or requests, causing them to waste time and effort without receiving a clear or satisfactory response. It often implies a lack of genuine cooperation or intention to help on the part of the person giving the runaround.
• give (one) the runaround The idiom "give (one) the runaround" means to intentionally confuse or deceive someone, usually by providing false or vague information, delaying actions or decisions, or refusing to provide a clear response or solution. It implies a deliberate attempt to mislead or frustrate someone who is seeking answers or resolution to a problem.
• get the runaround The idiom "get the runaround" means to be given excuses, delays, or evasive responses in order to avoid dealing with a problem or issue. It refers to a situation where someone tries to get information, assistance, or resolution, but instead, they are redirected from one person or department to another, without receiving a satisfactory answer or solution.
• give somebody the runaround The idiom "give somebody the runaround" means to intentionally avoid providing clear or straightforward answers or information to someone, usually by using various excuses, delays, or evasive tactics. It implies keeping someone confused, misled, or frustrated rather than addressing their concerns directly.

Similar spelling word for RUNAROUND

• run around.

Plural form of RUNAROUND is RUNAROUNDS