cir·cle
(sûrkəl)
(sûrkəl)n.
1.
a. A plane curve everywhere equidistant from a given fixed point, the center.
b. A planar region bounded by a circle.
c. Something, such as a ring, shaped like such a plane curve.
2. A circular or nearly circular course, circuit, or orbit:a satellite's circle around the earth.
3. A traffic circle.
4. A series or process that finishes at its starting point or continuously repeats itself; a cycle.
5. A group of people sharing an interest, activity, or achievement:well-known in artistic circles.
6. A territorial or administrative division, especially of a province, in some European countries.
7. A sphere of influence or interest; domain.
8. Logic A vicious circle.
v.cir·cled, cir·cling, cir·cles
v.tr.
1. To make or form a circle around:The hedge circles the fountain.
2. To move in a circle around:The ship circled the island.
v.intr.
Idiom: To move in a circle. See Synonyms at turn.
circle the wagons
To take a defensive position; become defensive.
[Middle Englishcercle, fromOld French, fromLatincirculus, diminutive ofcircus, circle, fromGreekkirkos, krikos; see sker-2 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.]
circler(-klər)n.
circle