circle

/ˈsɜɹkəl/

IPA: /S ER1 K AH0 L/

noun
  1. 1

    A two-dimensional geometric figure, a line, consisting of the set of all those points in a plane that are equally distant from a given point (center).

    The set of all points (x, y) such that (x − 1)2 + y2 = r2 is a circle of radius r around the point (1, 0).

  2. 2

    A two-dimensional geometric figure, a disk, consisting of the set of all those points of a plane at a distance less than or equal to a fixed distance (radius) from a given point.

  3. 3

    Any shape, curve or arrangement of objects that approximates to or resembles the geometric figures.

    Children, please join hands and form a circle.

  4. 4

    A specific group of persons; especially one who shares a common interest.

    circle of friends

  5. 5

    The orbit of an astronomical body.

  6. 6

    A line comprising two semicircles of 30 yards radius centred on the wickets joined by straight lines parallel to the pitch used to enforce field restrictions in a one-day match.

  7. 7

    A ritual circle that is cast three times deosil and closes three times widdershins either in the air with a wand or literally with stones or other items used for worship.

  8. 8

    A traffic circle or roundabout.

  9. 9

    Compass; circuit; enclosure.

  10. 10

    An instrument of observation, whose graduated limb consists of an entire circle. When fixed to a wall in an observatory, it is called a mural circle; when mounted with a telescope on an axis and in Y's, in the plane of the meridian, a meridian or transit circle; when involving the principle of reflection, like the sextant, a reflecting circle; and when that of repeating an angle several times continuously along the graduated limb, a repeating circle.

  11. 11

    A series ending where it begins, and repeating itself.

  12. 12

    A form of argument in which two or more unproved statements are used to prove each other; inconclusive reasoning.

  13. 13

    Indirect form of words; circumlocution.

  14. 14

    A territorial division or district.

    The ten Circles of the Holy Roman Empire were those principalities or provinces which had seats in the German Diet.

  15. 15

    (in the plural) A bagginess of the skin below the eyes from lack of sleep.

    After working all night, she had circles under her eyes.

verb
  1. 1

    To travel around along a curved path.

    The wolves circled the herd of deer.

  2. 2

    To surround.

    A high fence circles the enclosure.

  3. 3

    To place or mark a circle around.

    Circle the jobs that you are interested in applying for.

  4. 4

    To travel in circles.

    Vultures circled overhead.

Source: https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/circle