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

A former Tennessee star, Lawson brings Summitt’s brand crackling intensity to Duke, a mindset that she’s said calls for supreme confidence, chasing excellence and holding oneself to an all-around standard of success.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

This does not portend an all-around divestment from America.

From Slate • Mar. 20, 2026

Lowe— arguably the world’s pre-eminent all-around climber—was hired to be Sandy’s personal guide, a job for which he was paid a substantial sum.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer

Related Words

• versatile