First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1circuit
noun, cir·cuit often attributive \ˈsər-kət\
: a series of performances, sports events, lectures, etc., that are held or done at many different places
: a path or trip around something
: the complete path that an electric current travels along
Full Definition of CIRCUIT
1
a : a usually circular line encompassing an area b : the space enclosed within such a line
2
a : a course around a periphery b : a circuitous or indirect route
3
a : a regular tour (as by a traveling judge or preacher) around an assigned district or territory b : the route traveled c : a group of church congregations ministered to by one pastor
4
a : the complete path of an electric current including usually the source of electric energy b : an assemblage of electronic elements : hookup c : a two-way communication path between points (as in a computer) d : a neuronal pathway of the brain along which electrical and chemical signals travel
5
a : an association of similar groups : league b : a number or series of public outlets (as theaters, radio shows, or arenas) offering the same kind of presentation c : a number of similar social gatherings <the cocktail circuit>
— cir·cuit·al \-kə-təl\ adjective
See circuit defined for English-language learners
See circuit defined for kids
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Origin of CIRCUIT
Middle English, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French circuite, from Latin circuitus, from circumire, circuire to go around, from circum- + ire to go — more at issue
2circuit
verb
Definition of CIRCUIT
transitive verb
: to make a circuit about
intransitive verb
: to make a circuit
First Known Use of CIRCUIT
15th century
Related to CIRCUIT
- Synonyms
- circle, encircle, circumnavigate, circumvent, compass, girdle, orbit, ring, round
CIRCUIT Defined for Kids
circuit
noun cir·cuit \ˈsər-kət\
Definition of CIRCUIT for Kids
1
: a boundary line around an area
2
: an enclosed space
3
: movement around something <The earth makes a circuit around the sun.>
4
: a regular tour of service (as by a judge) around an assigned territory : a course so traveled
5
: a series of performances, competitions, or appearances held at many different places <the pro tennis circuit>
6
: the complete path of an electric current
7
: a group of electronic parts
Medical Dictionary
circuit
noun cir·cuit \ˈsər-kət\
Medical Definition of CIRCUIT
: the complete path of an electric current including usually the source of electric energy
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