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Synonyms for

Circling

Verb / ˈsɜ:kʌlɪŋ / / ˈsɜ:klɪŋ / Another word for circling — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Moving or going around in a circle.

Synonyms & similar words

circulate circle encircle revolving spinning turning rotating twirling whirling gyrating orbiting encircling surrounding encompassing embracing engirding girdling ringing looping curving bending arching winding

Synonyms by register

Formal

revolving rotating orbiting encompassing

Informal

going around looping hanging around prowling

Literary

wheeling gyrating surrounding

Antonyms

straight direct linear advancing progressing moving away

Common collocations

  • circling the drain
  • circling overhead
  • circling back
  • circling the globe
  • circling the wagons
  • circling around
  • circling the area

Word family

noun circle
verb circle
adjective circular
adverb circularly

Usage note

While 'circling' can describe physical movement, it's also used figuratively, as in 'circling the drain,' to indicate decline or impending failure.

Compare "circling" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The airplane is circling the airport before landing.
  2. The children are circling around the teacher.
  3. The dog is circling the tree.
  4. The dancers are circling around the fire.
  5. The cars are circling the racetrack.

Quotes

  • Time keeps on circling around.
  • I'm just circling around the sun on this rock.
  • Life is a circle, constantly circling back around to where we started.

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