■ noun
1》 a shape produced by a curve that bends round and crosses itself.
↘a length of thread or similar material forming such a shape, used as a fastening or handle.
↘(also ~ line ) Brit. a length of railway track which is connected at either end to the main line and on to which trains can be diverted.
↘(also ~-the-~ ) a manoeuvre in which an aircraft describes a vertical circle in the air.
↘ Skating a manoeuvre describing a ~, made on a single edge.
2》 a structure, series, or process the end of which is connected to the beginning.
↘an endless strip of tape or film allowing continuous repetition.
↘a complete circuit for an electric current.
↘ Computing a programmed sequence of instructions that is repeated until or while a particular condition is satisfied.
■ verb form into a ~ or ~s; encircle.
↘follow a course that forms a ~ or ~s.
↘put into or execute a ~ of tape, film, or computing instructions.
↘(also ~ the ~ ) (of an aircraft) circle vertically in the air.
Phrases
in (or out of ) the ~ informal aware (or unaware) of information known to only a privileged few.
throw (or knock ) someone for a ~ N. Amer. informal surprise or astonish someone.
Origin
ME: of unknown origin; cf. Sc. Gaelic lùb '~'.