make the rounds
Meaning
To go around to several places or people in turn, often in a regular or expected circuit (e.g., visits, inspections, social stops).
Origin
From the idea of doing a “round” as a circuit or loop—common in patrols, inspections, and doctors visiting patients. The phrase later extended to social visits and to news/rumors “making the rounds.”
Notes
Often refers to a routine circuit (inspections, visits). Also very common for information/rumors spreading (“the story is making the rounds”). Neutral, conversational.
Examples
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After the meeting, the manager made the rounds to check in with each team.
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A rumor about the new policy started making the rounds around the office.
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The nurse makes the rounds every hour to monitor the patients.
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The comedian’s latest clip is making the rounds on social media.
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Before leaving, I made the rounds to say goodbye to everyone at the party.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: make the rounds. Verb inflects (makes/made/making). Can be intransitive (“He made the rounds”) or with a location/setting (“made the rounds of the office/bars”). Also used with information as subject (“The rumor made the rounds”).
Synonyms
- go around
- do the rounds
- make a circuit
- pay visits
- make the rounds (of)
- circulate (for rumors/news)
Antonyms
- stay put
- remain in one place
- keep quiet (about information)