About

Old English abutan, earlier onbutan "on the outside of," from on (see on) + be "by" (see by) + utan "outside," from ut (see out(adv.)). By 13c. it had forced out Old English ymbe, ymbutan for meaning "in the neighborhood of." Abouts, with adverbial genitive, still found in hereabouts, etc., probably is a northern dialectal form. About face as a military command (short for right about face) is first attested 1861, American English.

What's that book about?

a film about the Spanish Civil War

We were talking/laughing about Sophie.

He's always (going) on about what a great job he's got.

I'm worried about David.

I really don't know what all the fuss is about.

I wish you'd do something about (= take action to solve the problem of) your bedroom - it's a real mess.

uk informal Could you make me a coffee too while you're about it (= while you are making one for yourself)?

What didn't you like about the play?

There's something about her attitude that worries me.

There's something special about him (= in his character).

"Is that your car?" "Yes, what about it?" (= Why are you asking me?)