Word
circumference
Phoneticscir·cum·fer·ence
US/ˌsɝˈkəmfɹəns/
UK/sɜːkˈʌmfɹəns/
Definitions
01distance around a circle
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Mathematics
n. the total length of the outside edge of a circle or round shape.
n. the linear distance around the edge of a closed curve or circular object.
“The scientist measured the circumference of the tree trunk to estimate its age.”
“To calculate the circumference of the planet at the equator, early astronomers relied on precise observations of the sun's angle at different latitudes.”
Usage
Usually functions as a countable noun; often used with the preposition 'of'.
02the boundary line
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Mathematics
n. the actual line that forms the edge of a circle.
n. the set of points that constitute the boundary of a circle or similar geometric figure.
“He drew a series of small dots along the circumference of the circle.”
“The architect designed the walkway to follow the circumference of the courtyard, creating a perfect loop for visitors.”
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Abdominal obesity was defined as a waist circumference greater than 102 centimeters for men and 88 centimeters for women.” “Even when used on its own, waist circumference performed nearly as well.” Etymology
From Latin circumferentia, from circum (“around”) + ferō (“I carry”). Displaced native Old English ymbgang.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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