/ ˈsɜːkəmskraɪb; NAmE ˈsɜːrk-/ verb [ vn ]
1.
[ often passive ] ( formal ) to limit sb/sth's freedom, rights, power, etc.
SYN restrict :
The power of the monarchy was circumscribed by the new law.
2.
( technical ) to draw a circle around another shape
► cir·cum·scrip·tion / ˌsɜːkəmˈskrɪpʃn; NAmE ˌsɜːrk-/ noun [ U ]
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Latin circumscribere , from circum around + scribere write.