This phrase is really around the clock, but we often say ‘round the clock instead. Some similar phrases are ‘round the world and ‘round and ‘round (we go).
(A)round the clock means “24 hours per day.” This phrase is often used to describe work or business:
We worked ‘round the clock to finish the report on time.
This store is open ‘round the clock.
Round or around is a preposition meaning “in a circle.” For example we can walk around a hill, fly around the world, or gather around a table. The clock represents the 24 hours of a day-and-night.
‘Round the Clock in a Sentence: More Examples
- Helen needed round-the-clock medication.
- It is a round-the-clock operation.
- This required six years of round-the–clock work.
- Skilled nursing is designed for people who need medical attention around the clock.
- Julio is working ‘round the clock and getting only a few hours of sleep.
- Air traffic controllers worked round the clock to fly in troops and equipment.