circumscription

cir·cum·scrip·tion

noun \ˌsər-k^əm-ˈskrip-shən\

Definition of CIRCUMSCRIPTION

1

: the act of circumscribing : the state of being circumscribed: as a : definition, delimitation <the circumscription of her duties> b : limitation

2

: something that circumscribes: as a : limit, boundary b : restriction <a circumscription of his power to act>

3

: a circumscribed area or district

Examples of CIRCUMSCRIPTION

1. <such circumscriptions on the freedom of speech are antithetical to a free and open society>
2. <electronic monitoring bracelets are sometimes used to impose a circumscription of movement on people awaiting trial>

Origin of CIRCUMSCRIPTION

Latin circumscription-, circumscriptio, from circumscribere

First Known Use: 1531

Related to CIRCUMSCRIPTION

Synonyms: check, restriction, condition, constraint, curb, fetter, limitation, restraint, stricture

Related Words: exception, proviso, qualification, reservation, stipulation, strings; ban, prohibition, proscription

Near Antonyms: freedom, latitude

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Rhymes with CIRCUMSCRIPTION

nonprescription