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around

According to the Canadian Oxford Dictionary, around is an adverb or preposition that has several meanings, including the following:

  • enveloping: The shawl around Meg’s shoulders was too thin for warmth.
  • so as to encircle: The Girl Guides sat around the campfire and sang until they were hoarse.
  • on every side (of): Looking around the room, he spotted his friends clustered around the piano.
  • here and there (in): The toddler bounced around the room.
  • near at hand: The dog was always around.

Around is often redundant and can be omitted.

  • For a proper fit, measure (around) the narrowest part of the waist.
  • I know those socks are (around) here somewhere.
  • With this workload, I’m glad to have the extra staff (around).