runabout

[ ruhn-uh-bout ]

noun

1. a small, light automobile or other vehicle, usually with an open top; roadster.
2. a small pleasure motorboat.
3. a person who roves around from place to place or group to group.

runabout

/ ˈrʌnəˌbaʊt /

noun

1. a small car, esp one for use in a town
2. a light aircraft
3. a light motorboat
4. a person who moves about constantly or busily

verb

1. intr, adverb to move busily from place to place

Word History and Origins

Origin of runabout¹

First recorded in 1540–50; noun use of verb phrase run about

Example Sentences

An urban runabout that won’t break any speed records, but nor will it break the bank.

From BBC

Some participants drove runabouts that slice through the water, while others used hydroplanes, which glide over it.

From Seattle Times

There are more EV options than ever before, and your selection isn’t just limited to compact urban runabouts.

From Seattle Times

The one-time best-selling runabout is no longer considered viable to make, and there will be no direct successor.

From BBC

As a result, anyone looking to buy a small runabout may need time to find one.

From New York Times