THEREABOUT Meaning and
Definition
-
Thereabout is an adverb that primarily means approximately or around a particular place or time. It is often used to provide a rough estimation or approximation of a location or time frame.
In relation to location, "thereabout" refers to being in the general vicinity or close proximity to a specific place. For example, if someone says "the store is located thereabout," it suggests the store is nearby, without specifying an exact distance or direction.
Regarding time, "thereabout" is employed to convey an imprecise or vague timeframe. It suggests that an event, occurrence, or action happened around a certain period without indicating an exact date or time. For instance, "the meeting started at seven o'clock or thereabout" implies the meeting commenced at approximately seven or a little earlier or later.
"Thereabout" can also be used to indicate an approximate quantity or number. It suggests an estimation close to a specific figure but not precisely that number. For instance, "She owns fifty pairs of shoes or thereabout" implies that she possesses approximately fifty pairs, perhaps a few more or fewer.
Overall, "thereabout" serves as a versatile adverb that allows individuals to give an estimate or approximation when discussing location, time, or quantities, providing a general sense without the need for specific numerical or positional precision.
Common Misspellings for THEREABOUT
Etymology of THEREABOUT
The word "thereabout" is a compound word that combines "there" and "about".
- "There" comes from the Old English word "þǣr" which means "in or at that place". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "*þēr" and is related to the Old High German word "dār" and the Gothic word "þar".
- "About" comes from the Old English word "abūtan" which means "around" or "on every side". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*umbūtan" which combines the prefix "*um-" (meaning "around") and "*būtan" (meaning "outside").
The two words were combined to form "thereabout", which is used to indicate an approximate or vague location or in reference to an imprecise time.
Similar spelling words for THEREABOUT
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
