merry-go-round

[mer-ee-goh-round]

noun

1. Also called carousel. (in amusement parks, carnivals, etc.) a revolving, circular platform with wooden horses or other animals, benches, etc., on which people may sit or ride, usually to the accompaniment of mechanical or recorded music.

2. a rapid whirl or a busy round, as of social life or business affairs.

merry-go-round

noun

1. another name for roundabout

2. a whirl of activity or events

   the merry-go-round of the fashion world

Word History and Origins

Origin of merry-go-round¹

First recorded in 1720–30

Related Words

• amusement 
• distraction 
• fun 
• pastime 
• pleasure 

When To Use

What is a merry-go-round?

A merry-go-round is an amusement park ride that consists of a revolving, circular platform with wooden horses or other fixtures, as in Sofia and Camila begged their parents to ride the merry-go-round with them.  A merry-go-round is also known as a carousel. People sit on the fixtures, while the platform goes around slowly and cheery (some might say “cheesy”) music plays.Merry-go-round can also be used figuratively to refer to a whirl, or a busy round, of activity, as in Sports fans are always delighted by the merry-go-round of the trading season. Example: I always enjoyed listening to carnival music when I rode the merry-go-round as a kid.