English Reference
adjective · noun

circular

adj. · n.
US /ˈsɝkjəɫɝ/ UK /sˈɜːkjʊlɐ/ cir·cu·lar UK spelling circulars

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.having the shape of a circle or moving in a circle.

    adj.pertaining to the shape of a circle or movement along a curved path that returns to its starting point.

    Simple

    The children sat in a circular formation on the rug for story time.

    In context

    The satellite maintains a stable circular orbit around the planet, ensuring consistent data collection for the meteorological team.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.not going directly to a point; taking a long way around.

    adj.circuitous or indirect in path or reasoning.

    Simple

    We took a circular route through the park to see all the gardens.

    In context

    The hikers followed a circular trail that led them back to the trailhead after passing the waterfall and the ridge.

    roundaboutcircuitousindirect
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Academic

    adj.describing an argument that uses its own conclusion as a reason why it is true.

    adj.referring to a line of reasoning where the conclusion is already assumed in the premises, creating a logical loop.

    Simple

    His argument was circular because he just repeated his main point in different words.

    In context

    The philosopher critiqued the author's circular reasoning, noting that the initial assumption was identical to the final conclusion.

    recursivetautological
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a letter or advertisement that is sent to many people at the same time.

    n.a printed advertisement, notice, or directive intended for wide distribution to a specific group or the general public.

    Simple

    The supermarket sends out a weekly circular with all the latest discounts.

    In context

    The local council distributed a circular to every household explaining the changes to the recycling collection schedule.

    leafletflyerhandbill
  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Archaic

    n.a type of coat or cape without sleeves that is cut in a round shape.

    n.a sleeveless cloak or cape constructed from a circular pattern of fabric.

    Simple

    The character in the old play wore a heavy wool circular to stay warm.

    In context

    The museum's costume collection includes a velvet circular from the mid-nineteenth century, remarkably well-preserved despite its age.

Usage circular economy

Circular RNA has attracted attention as a way to overcome the instability of conventional linear mRNA.

Phys.org· 14 Aug 2026

Feel around each breast or side of your chest in a circular motion all the way up to your collarbone and under each armpit.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026

From Middle English circuler, circuleer, circulere, from Old French circulier (French circulaire), from Late Latin circularis, from Latin circulus, diminutive of circus (“ring”). By surface analysis, circle + -ar.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin circulus
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated