merry-go-round

• (US) IPA^(key): /ˈmɛ.ɹi.ɡoʊ.ɹaʊnd/, /ˈmɛ.ɹi.ɡə.ɹaʊnd/

merry-go-round (plural merry-go-rounds)

1. carousel; a pleasure ride consisting of a slowly revolving circular platform affixed with various types of seats, frequently horses or other animals, typically found at fairs and amusement parks
2. a piece of playground equipment in the style of a merry-go-round
3. (figuratively) A meaningless cycle; a bustle of activity that gets nowhere
   • 1997, Strangelove (band), The Greatest Show on Earth (song)

     There's no time for happiness today
     Got a date for lunch, a plastic tray
     Got a deal to sign her life away
     Got an early grave she's gotta make
     And we are all insane
     Hold on
     Slow down
     You'll never get to heaven on this merry-go-round […]

4. (rail transport) A freight train of hopper goods wagons which loads and unloads its cargo while moving

• carousel

• calliope
• carousel
• roundabout