around the clock

1 of 2

phrase

variants or less commonly round the clock
Synonyms of around the clocknext
1
: continuously for 24 hours : day and night without cessation
2
: without relaxation and heedless of time

around-the-clock

2 of 2

adjective

ə-ˈrau̇nd-ṯẖə-ˈkläk How to pronounce around-the-clock (audio)
: being in effect, continuing, or lasting 24 hours a day : constant
around-the-clock surveillance

Examples of around the clock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Phrase
Consumer phones were never built to run flat out, around the clock, for years on end. — New Atlas, 2 July 2026 This makes sense since parents spend more time with their children and can impact progress around the clock. — Jeff Beck, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026
Adjective
Despite intensive treatment and around-the-clock monitoring, zookeepers said his symptoms did not improve. — Cecilio Padilla, CBS News, 30 June 2026 This outdoor camera has a modular solar panel that powers up its internal battery, providing around-the-clock coverage. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for around the clock

Word History

First Known Use

Phrase

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1915, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of around the clock was in 1872

Rhymes for around the clock

See All Rhymes for around the clock

Browse Nearby Words

around the block
around the clock
around-the-clock
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Around the clock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/around%20the%20clock. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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