around

This word captures the essence of non-linearity. It suggests a lack of a straight path, whether that is a physical circle, a wandering movement through a neighborhood, or a loose approximation of a number. It evokes a feeling of flexibility and openness rather than precision. In social contexts, it often implies availability or presence without a fixed purpose, such as hanging around. This contrasts with words like through or across, which imply a clear start and end point, whereas around emphasizes the perimeter or the general vicinity.