circulus
[ˈkɪr.kʊ.ɫʊs]masculine
The English phrase 'circle' is translated into Latin as circulus. Wiktionary also lists circus.
Meaning: geometry: set of points that are equally distant from a center (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| circulus | [ˈkɪr.kʊ.ɫʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈt͡ʃir.ku.lus] (narrow) |
masculine |
| circus | [ˈkɪr.kʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈt͡ʃir.kus] (narrow) |
masculine |
In a geometric context, use circulus to refer to the set of points that are equally distant from a center. While orbis primarily means globe or sphere, it can be used in formal contexts to refer to a circle, especially when implying a circular path or trajectory.
What does it mean word for word?
The word circulus is a diminutive form, literally meaning 'little circle'.
Which one should you use?
Use circulus when referring specifically to the geometric shape. In contrast, use circus when referring to a circular space, an arena or an enclosed area used for public spectacles.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The word circulus is a masculine noun. The related verb cingō means to surround.
Did you know?
- In Roman culture, the circus was not just a circle but an oval. The term was used for any arena that provided a circular path for chariot racing regardless of its perfect geometry.
- The root of these words, the Proto-Indo-European *(s)ker-, means 'to turn' or 'to bend'.
- The word orbis can mean 'circle' but specifically evokes the image of a disk or a globe. This is the root of the phrase 'orbis terrarum' meaning 'the circle of the lands', which describes the whole world.
Examples in context
- Circulus trecentos sexaginta gradus habet.A circle has three hundred sixty degrees.This sentence is useful for describing the properties of a circulus.Tatoeba #11639904 by carlosalberto, translation #11639891 by carlosalberto
- Circulus in arena est.The circle is in the arena.
Example conversation
Gaius and Claudia are studying geometry together.
- GaiusClaudia, visne hunc circulum videre?Claudia, do you want to see this circle?
- ClaudiaIta, Gai, circulus optimus est.Yes, Gaius, the circle is perfect.
- GaiusUbi est centrum huius circuli?Where is the center of this circle?
- ClaudiaCentrum in medio est.The center is in the middle.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “circle” translations and entries circulus, circus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries circulus, circus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
