bout

1. A period of something, usually painful or unpleasant.

   a bout of drought.

2. A boxing match.
3. An assault (a fencing encounter) at which the score is kept.
4. A roller derby match.
5. A fighting competition.
6. A bulge or widening in a musical instrument, such as either of the two characteristic bulges of a guitar.
7. The going and returning of a plough, or other implement used to mark the ground and create a headland, across a field.

verb

To contest a bout.

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

   The snake was coiled about his ankle.

2. 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.

3. Indicates that something will happen very soon; indicates a plan or intention to do something.
4. Concerning; with regard to; on account of; on the subject of; to affect.

   He talked a lot about his childhood.

5. Concerned with; engaged in; intent on.

   to be about one's business

6. 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.

7. On one's person; nearby the person.

   I had no weapon about me but a stick.

8. 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.