bout

A period of something, usually painful or unpleasant.

“a bout of drought.”

A boxing match.

An assault (a fencing encounter) at which the score is kept.

A roller derby match.

A fighting competition.

A bulge or widening in a musical instrument, such as either of the two characteristic bulges of a guitar.

The going and returning of a plough, or other implement used to mark the ground and create a headland, across a field.

To contest a bout.

In a circle around; all round; on every side of; on the outside of.

“The snake was coiled about his ankle.”

Over or upon different parts of; through or over in various directions; here and there in; to and fro in; throughout.

“He was well known about town.”

Indicates that something will happen very soon; indicates a plan or intention to do something.

Concerning; with regard to; on account of; on the subject of; to affect.

“He talked a lot about his childhood.”

Concerned with; engaged in; intent on.

“to be about one's business”

Within or in the immediate neighborhood of; in contiguity or proximity to; near, as to place.

“I can't find my reading glasses, but they must be somewhere about the house.”

On one's person; nearby the person.

“I had no weapon about me but a stick.”

In or near, as in mental faculties or in the possession of; under the control of; at one's command; in one's makeup.

“He has his wits about him.”