have (someone or something) about

have (someone or something) about

To keep someone or something nearby or physically within one's reach. Your mother will need to have you about to help as she makes Thanksgiving dinner. I always have a glass of water about when I sleep, because I hate waking up thirsty. Make sure to have your phone close about while you wait for my call.

See also: have

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

have someone or something about

 and have someone or something around

to have someone or something nearby habitually. I really don't want to have all those people about all the time. It's good to have a fire extinguisher around.

See also: have

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.