runabout

noun

run·​about ˈrə-nə-ˌbau̇t How to pronounce runabout (audio)
Synonyms of runaboutnext
1
: one who wanders about : stray
2
: a light usually open wagon, car, or motorboat

Examples of runabout 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.
The Sidekick proved to be a nifty runabout from one end of the property to the other. — Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 8 Apr. 2026 That means an emphasis on pontoons, runabouts, fishing boats, ski and wake boats and larger open-water cruisers. — Rick Barrett, jsonline.com, 17 Jan. 2025 This family yard has spent the past decade proving its knack for reinterpreting the world’s most beautiful runabout forms. — Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 16 June 2026 Easy to ride, easy to care for, fun and stylish, these electric urban runabouts are a great way to get into the fun and excitement of motorcycle riding. — William Roberson, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for runabout

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of runabout was in 1549

Rhymes for runabout

See All Rhymes for runabout

Browse Nearby Words

run
runabout
run about/round with
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Runabout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/runabout. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

runabout

noun
run·​about ˈrən-ə-ˌbau̇t How to pronounce runabout (audio)
: a small motorboat used especially for pleasure

More from Merriam-Webster on runabout

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for runabout

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about runabout

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