noun
Uncommon
circumference
sur-KUHMF-ruhns
Circumference (noun) means the distance all the way around the edge of a circle or round object. Example: “The circumference of the wheel is just over two metres.”
noun
1
The distance all the way around the edge of a circle or round object.
"The circumference of the wheel is just over two metres."
"Measure the circumference of the trunk to estimate the tree's age."
How to use circumference
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe measurement of the outer boundary of something round.
Common pairings
circumference of a circle
measure the circumference
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Word forms
- Plural
- circumferences
- Third person singular
- circumferences
- Past tense
- circumferenced
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of the wheel is just over two metres.
Etymology
From Latin circumferentia, from circum ("around") plus ferre ("to carry").
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for circumference
See all rhymes for circumference →Frequently asked questions
What does “circumference” mean?
The word “circumference” means the distance all the way around the edge of a circle or round object. In plain terms, the measurement of the outer boundary of something round.
How do you pronounce “circumference”?
“Circumference” is pronounced sur-KUHMF-ruhns (/sɚˈkʌmfɹəns/ in IPA).
How do you use “circumference” in a sentence?
Here is “circumference” used in a sentence: “The circumference of the wheel is just over two metres.”
What is another word for “circumference”?
Words with a similar meaning to “circumference” include perimeter, umstroke and lap.
What part of speech is “circumference”?
“Circumference” is a noun.
Where does the word “circumference” come from?
The word “circumference” comes from Latin. From Latin circumferentia, from circum ("around") plus ferre ("to carry").
Is “circumference” a common word?
“Circumference” is an uncommon word in modern English.
