roundabout

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a road junction at which traffic streams circularly around a central island
noun a large, rotating machine with seats for children to ride or amusement
adjective marked by obliqueness or indirection in speech or conduct

From round + about [from early 20th c.].

In a defeat there would be a roundabout vindication of himself. — The Red Badge of Courage: An Episode of the American Civil War, Stephen Crane
No, I don't know any more than you do--maybe it's some roundabout way. — The Long Roll, Mary Johnston
But, remember, it may seem to you a very roundabout way indeed, and you must not doubt the thread. — The Princess and the Goblin, George MacDonald

traffic circle, circle, rotary

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