runabout

[ruhn-uh-bout]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a small, light automobile or other vehicle, usually with an open top; roadster.
a small pleasure motorboat.
a person who roves around from place to place or group to group.

runabout

/ ˈ��ʌ��əˌ��ʊ�� /

noun

a small car, esp one for use in a town
a light aircraft
a light motorboat
a person who moves about constantly or busily

verb

(intr, adverb) to move busily from place to place

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Word History and Origins

Origin of runabout¹

First recorded in 1540–50; noun use of verb phrase run about

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

A very small one, designed as a cheap city runabout – but it could have huge significance.

From

The carmaker is attempting to move away from its past as a mass-manufacturer of cheap "runabouts", and position itself as more upmarket brand, focused on electric cars.

From

An urban runabout that won’t break any speed records, but nor will it break the bank.

From

Some participants drove runabouts that slice through the water, while others used hydroplanes, which glide over it.

From

There are more EV options than ever before, and your selection isn’t just limited to compact urban runabouts.

From

run run across

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