Antarctic Circle

noun

variants also antarctic circle
: the parallel of latitude that is approximately 66½ degrees south of the equator and that circumscribes the southern frigid zone

Word History

First Known Use

1556, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Antarctic Circle was in 1556

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Cite this Entry

“Antarctic Circle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Antarctic%20Circle. Accessed 9 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

antarctic circle

noun
often capitalized A&C
: the parallel of latitude that is approximately 66½ degrees south of the equator
Last Updated: - Definition revised
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