circumgyration

noun

cir·​cum·​gyration
plural -s
1
2
: movement in a circular course
Aristotle's view that all the heavenly bodies … move in circular orbits in which each circumgyration is an exact repetition of every one that has preceded itA. J. Toynbee

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin circumgyratus (past participle of circumgyrare to turn around, from Latin circum- + gyrare to turn) + English -ion

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near circumgyration

Cite this Entry

“Circumgyration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circumgyration. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!