have been around {v. phr.}, {informal} Have been to many places and done many things; know people; have experience and be able to take care of yourself. * /Uncle Willie is an old sailor and has really been around./ * /Betty likes to go out with Jerry, because he has been around./ * /It's not easy to fool him; he's been around./ Compare: GET AROUND, KNOW ONE'S WAY AROUND.