all-around

American  

[awl-uh-round] / ˈɔl əˌraʊnd /

Also all-round

adjective

1. able to do many things; versatile.

   an all-around player.

2. broadly applicable; not specialized.

   an all-around education.

3. inclusive; comprehensive; complete.

   an all-around failure.

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all-around British  

adjective

1. (prenominal) the US equivalent of all-round

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Etymology

Origin of all-around

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

As bleak, frightening and all-around life-ruining as the internet has proven itself to be, there was a time not long ago when the World Wide Web felt like a portal, not a black hole.

From Salon • Apr. 12, 2026

But even grave-robbing isn’t as unpleasant as the dynamics of the Morelli family, led by chief screamer, grouser, mayoral candidate and all-around non-people-person Linda Morelli.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Ultimately, it’s an admission from Nvidia that its GPUs aren’t the AI all-around champion that can do everything better than the competition.

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026

Davidson had just turned in one of her most impressive all-around performances of the season, pouring in 24 points, five rebounds, six assists, four steals and three blocks.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

I’d saved this leotard, my favorite, for the all-around.

From "Courage to Soar" by Simone Biles

Related Words

• versatile