A period of something, usually painful or unpleasant.
a bout of drought.
A boxing match.
An assault (a fencing encounter) at which the score is kept.
A roller derby match.
A fighting competition.
A bulge or widening in a musical instrument, such as either of the two characteristic bulges of a guitar.
The going and returning of a plough, or other implement used to mark the ground and create a headland, across a field.
To contest a bout.
In a circle around; all round; on every side of; on the outside of.
The snake was coiled about his ankle.
Over or upon different parts of; through or over in various directions; here and there in; to and fro in; throughout.
He was well known about town.
Indicates that something will happen very soon; indicates a plan or intention to do something.
Concerning; with regard to; on account of; on the subject of; to affect.
He talked a lot about his childhood.
Concerned with; engaged in; intent on.
to be about one's business
Within or in the immediate neighborhood of; in contiguity or proximity to; near, as to place.
I can't find my reading glasses, but they must be somewhere about the house.
On one's person; nearby the person.
I had no weapon about me but a stick.
In or near, as in mental faculties or in the possession of; under the control of; at one's command; in one's makeup.
He has his wits about him.