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circular

adj. · n.
US //ˈsɝkjəɫɝ// UK //sˈɜːkjʊlɐ// cir·cu·lar
  1. 1 shape or motion (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The satellite maintains a stable circular orbit around the planet, ensuring consistent data collection for the meteorological team.
  2. 2 indirect or roundabout (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

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

    circuitous or indirect in path or reasoning.

    Example

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

    Example

    The hikers followed a circular trail that led them back to the trailhead after passing the waterfall and the ridge.
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  1. 3 logic/reasoning (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The philosopher critiqued the author's circular reasoning, noting that the initial assumption was identical to the final conclusion.
  2. 4 printed notice (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The local council distributed a circular to every household explaining the changes to the recycling collection schedule.
  3. 5 clothing (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

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

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.

Idioms2 entries

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