First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1circular
adjective cir·cu·lar \ˈsər-kyə-lər\
: shaped like a circle or part of a circle
: moving or going around in a circle
: incorrectly using a statement that may not be true to prove an idea or thought that would be false if the original statement was not true
Full Definition of CIRCULAR
1
2
a : of or relating to a circle or its mathematical properties <a circular arc> b : having a circular base or bases <a circular cylinder>
3
4
: marked by or moving in a cycle
5
: being or involving reasoning that uses in the argument or proof a conclusion to be proved or one of its unproved consequences
6
: intended for circulation <a circular letter>
— cir·cu·lar·i·ty \ˌsər-kyə-ˈler-ə-tē, -ˈla-rə-\ noun
— cir·cu·lar·ly \ˈsər-kyə-lər-lē\ adverb
— cir·cu·lar·ness noun
See circular defined for English-language learners
See circular defined for kids
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Origin of CIRCULAR
Middle English circuler, from Middle French, from Late Latin circularis, from Latin circulus circle
Related to CIRCULAR
- Synonyms
- circuitous, indirect, roundabout
- Antonyms
- direct, straight, straightforward
Other Mathematics and Statistics Terms
2circular
noun
: a printed sheet (such as an advertisement) that is given or sent to many people at the same time
Full Definition of CIRCULAR
: a paper (as a leaflet) intended for wide distribution
See circular defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of CIRCULAR
1789
Other Printing Terms
CIRCULAR Defined for Kids
1circular
adjective cir·cu·lar \ˈsər-kyə-lər\
Definition of CIRCULAR for Kids
1
: shaped like a circle or part of a circle : round <a circular track>
2
: passing or going around in a circle <a circular motion>
3
: not said in simple or sincere language <a circular explanation>
2circular
noun
Definition of CIRCULAR for Kids
: a printed notice or advertisement given or sent to many people
Medical Dictionary
circular
adjective cir·cu·lar \ˈsər-kyə-lər\
Medical Definition of CIRCULAR
: manic-depressive; especially : bipolar 3 <the exalted phase of the mental circular state—Havelock Ellis>
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