English Explanatory Dictionary

about-face

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. An abrupt turn to face the opposite direction.
  2. A reversal in direction; a reversal of attitude or opinion.
verb
  1. To turn 180 degrees to face the opposite direction.
  2. To change opinion or attitude drastically.

Pronunciation

/əˈbaʊtˌfeɪs/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Persent101-about-face.wav

Word forms

about-face about-faces about face about-facing about-faced

Etymology

From about + face, first attested in 1861, used in the imperative in the military.

Related words

about turn arse about face backpedal heel/face turn turnabout turn around volte-face 180
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