verb
circulate
SUR-kyuu-layt
verb
1
To move continuously through a system, or to travel around and mix with a group of people.
"Blood circulates through the body via the heart and vessels."
"The host circulated among the guests, making small talk."
2
To spread information, rumours, or documents so they reach many people.
"Rumours of layoffs began to circulate around the office."
How to Use Circulate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo move around continuously (like blood or air) or to spread from person to person (like news or a rumour).
Common pairings
circulate a memo
blood circulates
rumours circulate
Word Forms
circulated past tense, circulates singular
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Blood _____ through the body via the heart and vessels.
Etymology
From Late Latin circulatus, past participle of circulare ("to make circular, encircle"), from circulus ("a circle").