# circling

/ˈsɝkəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /sˈɜːklɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/circling
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

to move in a circle around something or someone. You use this when describing movement that goes round and round a central point.

For teachers: to move in a circular path around a central point or object. The present participle of 'circle'.

## Examples

- The plane is circling the airport.
- The hawk was circling high above the field, waiting for the right moment to dive.
- The satellite continues circling the Earth at a precise altitude, maintaining a stable orbit that allows for consistent global communication coverage.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective describing motion or position.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.