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Definition of circumscribenext
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as in to define
to mark the limits of Lake Michigan circumscribes the city of Chicago on the east

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word circumscribe different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of circumscribe are confine, limit, and restrict. While all these words mean "to set bounds for," circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries.

the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed

When can confine be used instead of circumscribe?

Although the words confine and circumscribe have much in common, confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering.

our choices were confined by finances

When is limit a more appropriate choice than circumscribe?

While in some cases nearly identical to circumscribe, limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go.

visits are limited to 30 minutes

When might restrict be a better fit than circumscribe?

The words restrict and circumscribe can be used in similar contexts, but restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary.

laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of circumscribe In reality, as for most visiting celebrities, her itinerary was narrowly circumscribed. Zak Cheney-Rice, Vulture, 6 Nov. 2025 Like other forms of self expression, digital-communication technology has become dangerously circumscribed under Trump; only the tools that exist independent of Big Tech seem like safe bets for dissent. Kyle Chayka, New Yorker, 29 Oct. 2025 But recently, Ware said that attacks have been circumscribed to far fewer victims - even when there was the opportunity to kill more. NPR, 25 Oct. 2025 The president was more circumscribed in his Epstein comments. Zac Anderson, USA Today, 23 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for circumscribe
Recent Examples of Synonyms for circumscribe
Verb
  • Nevertheless, the McAlarneys admit that keeping their children away from smartphones and limiting technology is easier said than done, especially in today’s digital age.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026
  • To prevent their flocks from contracting bird flu, officials suggest poultry owners keep their animals away from wild and migratory birds, isolate animals with signs of illness, disinfect equipment and other items, and limit the flock's contact with people.
    Laura Fay, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Davis’ injury is the latest — and potentially most damaging — blow in a Mavericks season defined by attrition.
    Mike Curtis, Dallas Morning News, 10 Jan. 2026
  • While its character may be defined by its history—ask the staff about its connections to Jackie O and George Washington—the inn embraces all of the modern comforts.
    Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • That is why the top area of the volcano is restricted, though not everyone pays heed.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Carolina also has to make decisions on four pending restricted and two pending exclusive-rights free agents.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 11 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Horses aren’t meant to be confined only to a stable, the O’Donnells explained.
    Abigail Hasebroock, Sun Sentinel, 10 Jan. 2026
  • However, the allegations of widespread fraud and mismanagement during Newsom’s governorship is not confined to those on the starboard side of the political balance beam.
    Dan Walters, Mercury News, 9 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Circumscribe.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/circumscribe. Accessed 14 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on circumscribe

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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