Definition of circle
b
: a closed plane (see 6plane 2b) curve every point of which is equidistant (see equidistant 1) from a fixed point within the curve
c
: the plane surface bounded by such a curve
2
archaic
: the orbit of a celestial body
3
: something in the form of a circle or section of a circle: such as
a
: diadem
b
: an instrument of astronomical observation the graduated (see graduated 2a) limb of which consists of an entire circle
c
: a balcony or tier of seats in a theater
d
: a circle formed on the surface of a sphere by the intersection of a plane that passes through it
- circle of latitude
e
: rotary 2
- Traffic slowed down around the circle.
4
: an area of action or influence : realm
- within the circle of probability
b
: fallacious reasoning in which something to be demonstrated is covertly assumed
6
: a group of persons sharing a common interest or revolving about a common center
- the sewing circle of her church
- family circle
- the gossip of court circles
- political, social, and literary circles
7
: a territorial or administrative division or district
- The province is divided into nine circles.
8
: a curving side street
- lived on Kimberly Circle
9
: a circular course or path
- The children ran in circles around the tree.
- The conversation kept going in circles, and nothing got accomplished.
