Moving in a circular motion or turning around; also refers to pushing someone in a wheelchair. In business context, means engaging in complex negotiations or deals, often in 'wheeling and dealing.'
From Old English 'hweol' meaning wheel, related to the circular motion of wheels. The business sense of 'wheeling and dealing' emerged in American English in the mid-20th century, suggesting the circular, ongoing nature of negotiations.
The phrase 'wheeling and dealing' captures the dynamic, sometimes dizzy nature of high-stakes negotiations - like wheels spinning as people maneuver for advantage. It suggests both skill and a certain ruthless energy in business dealings.
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