circumscription

noun cir·cum·scrip·tion \ˌsər-k^əm-ˈskrip-shən\

Definition of CIRCUMSCRIPTION

: the act of circumscribing : the state of being circumscribed: as

a : definition, delimitation <the circumscription of her duties>

: something that circumscribes: as

b : restriction <a circumscription of his power to act>

: a circumscribed area or district

Latin circumscription-, circumscriptio, from circumscribere

First Known Use: 1531

Synonyms: check, restriction, condition, constraint, curb, fetter, limitation, restraint, stricture

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