runaround

noun

Etymology: Etymology tree English run arounddeverb. English runaround Deverbal from run around.

1. An evasive explanation in the form of multiple excuses.

   “I called them to find out what had happened to my parcel, but all I got was a runaround.”

2. A detour or route that bypasses an obstacle.
3. A section of type that is narrower than that of the column it is part of; typically next to an illustration.
4. A whitlow running around the fingernail but not affecting the bone.