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

Ask direct questions if someone is giving you the runaround. —Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 16 July 2024

Exorbitant legal fees and bureaucratic runarounds require property owners to follow a list of tedious rules to reclaim their property. —Washington Examiner Staff, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 10 July 2024

That’s when Rambo started to give them the runaround, Patel said. —Emily Brindley, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 July 2024

In today’s crossword, Trent H. Evans gives us the runaround, using a distinctive theme style. —Sam Corbin, New York Times, 17 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing runaround

• get the runaround
• give (someone) the runaround

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