# roundabout

/ˈɹaʊndəˌbaʊt/ (US) · /ɹˈaʊndɐbˌaʊt/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/roundabout
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a circular place where several roads meet. You drive around a center island until you reach the road you want to take.

For teachers: a circular intersection where traffic moves in one direction around a central island. Common in British English; often referred to as a 'traffic circle' in North American contexts.

## Examples

- Take the second exit at the roundabout.
- The new roundabout has significantly reduced the number of accidents at the busy intersection.
- Navigating the multi-lane roundabout requires constant attention to lane markings and the signaling of other drivers to ensure a safe exit.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with the verb 'take' when giving directions ('take the third exit').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.