Hereabouts

/ˌhɪrəˈbaʊts/ adverb

Definition

In or near this place; around here or in this general area.

Etymology

Compound of 'here' (Old English 'her') and 'abouts' (from 'about'). 'About' comes from Old English 'abutan' meaning 'around.' The compound emerged in Middle English.

Kelly Says

This charming adverb sounds Victorian but it's genuinely useful—it expresses geographical vagueness with precision. 'Around here' is simpler, but 'hereabouts' has personality that makes old writing feel lived-in!

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