ENGLISH
REFERENCE

circulating

v. · adj.
US //ˈsɝkjəˌɫeɪtɪŋ// UK //sˈɜːkjʊlˌeɪtɪŋ// cir·cu·lat·ing
  1. 1 moving in a system (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    moving continuously through a closed system, like air in a room or blood in your body.

    moving in a continuous circuit through a closed system or vessel.

    Example

    The fan helps keep the cool air circulating throughout the office.

    Example

    The pump ensures that the coolant is constantly circulating through the engine block to prevent overheating during long journeys.

    Usage

    Often used with prepositions like 'through' or 'around'.
    • stagnating
  2. 2 spreading information (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    passing from one person to another, like news, stories, or documents.

    passing from person to person or place to place; the dissemination of information or physical currency.

    Example

    Rumours about the company closing were circulating among the staff.

    Example

    The committee is currently circulating a draft of the new policy to gather feedback from all department heads.

    Usage

    Can be used intransitively (rumours are circulating) or transitively (circulating a memo).
  3. 3 socialising (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    moving around a room at a party to talk to many different people.

    moving among a group of people in a social setting to engage in conversation.

    Example

    The host spent the evening circulating and making sure everyone had a drink.

    Example

    As a diplomat, she was adept at circulating through the crowded ballroom, subtly gathering information from various attaches.
  4. 4 available to borrow (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical

    describing a library or collection where you can take items home rather than just looking at them there.

    relating to a library or collection that allows items to be borrowed by members.

    Example

    Most of the books in the university library are part of the circulating collection.

    Example

    The archive distinguishes between its rare manuscripts and its circulating library, the latter of which is accessible to all registered students.

Last updated June 20, 2026