First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
circumference
noun cir·cum·fer·ence \sə(r)-ˈkəm(p)-fərn(t)s, -f(ə-)rən(t)s\
: the length of a line that goes around something or that makes a circle or other round shape
: the outer edge of a shape or area
Full Definition of CIRCUMFERENCE
1
: the perimeter of a circle
2
: the external boundary or surface of a figure or object : periphery
— cir·cum·fer·en·tial \-ˌkəm(p)-fə-ˈren(t)-shəl\ adjective
See circumference defined for English-language learners
See circumference defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CIRCUMFERENCE
Middle English, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, from Latin circumferentia, from circumferre to carry around, from circum- + ferre to carry — more at bear
Related to CIRCUMFERENCE
- Synonyms
- girth
Other Mathematics and Statistics Terms
CIRCUMFERENCE Defined for Kids
circumference
noun cir·cum·fer·ence \sər-ˈkəm-fə-rəns, -fərns\
Definition of CIRCUMFERENCE for Kids
1
: the line that goes around a circle
2
: a boundary line enclosing an area <A fence marks the circumference of the yard.>
3
: the distance around something
Learn More About CIRCUMFERENCE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: circumferentorPrevious Word in the Dictionary: circumeterAll Words Near: circumference
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up circumference? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).