circle

¹cir·cle

noun, often attributive \ˈsər-kəl\

Definition of CIRCLE

1

a : ring, halo b : a closed plane curve every point of which is equidistant from a fixed point within the curve c : the plane surface bounded by such a curve

2

archaic : the orbit of a celestial body

3

: something in the form of a circle or section of a circle: as a : diadem b : an instrument of astronomical observation the graduated limb of which consists of an entire circle c : a balcony or tier of seats in a theater d : a circle formed on the surface of a sphere by the intersection of a plane that passes through it <circle of latitude> e : rotary 2

4

: an area of action or influence : realm

5

a : cycle, round <the wheel has come full circle> b : fallacious reasoning in which something to be demonstrated is covertly assumed

6

: a group of persons sharing a common interest or revolving about a common center <the sewing circle of her church> <family circle> <the gossip of court circles>

7

: a territorial or administrative division or district

8

: a curving side street

Examples of CIRCLE

1. She drew a circle around the correct answer.
2. We formed a circle around the campfire.
3. He looked old and tired, with dark circles under his eyes.
4. She has a large circle of friends.
5. She is well-known in banking circles.

Illustration of CIRCLE

Origin of CIRCLE

Middle English cercle, from Anglo-French, from Latin circulus, diminutive of circus circle, circus, from or akin to Greek krikos, kirkos ring; akin to Old English hring ring — more at ring

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to CIRCLE

Synonyms: cirque, ring, round, roundel

Related Words: circlet, ringlet; ellipse, loop, oval; ball, globe, orb, sphere

Near Antonyms: loner; individualist

see all synonyms and antonyms

[+]more[-]hide