circumscribe
UK: /ˈsɜː.kəm.skraɪb/ | US: /ˈsɝː.kəm.skraɪb/
vt. to draw a line around; to limit or restrict something within boundaries
vt. (geometry) to draw a figure around another, touching it at points but not cutting it
circumscribe = circum<around> + scribe<write>
- circum: From Latin circum ("around"), used as a prefix in English to indicate surrounding or enclosing action.
- scribe: From Latin scribere ("to write"), retained in English to denote marking or drawing (e.g., describe, inscribe).
Etymology Origin:
The word circumscribe originates from Latin circumscribere, combining circum ("around") and scribere ("to write/draw"). It originally described the act of drawing a boundary line around an object, later metaphorically extending to mean imposing limits (e.g., rules or authority). The geometric sense emerged from the idea of enclosing a shape within defined bounds.
The treaty circumscribes the military activities of both nations.
A circle circumscribed around a square touches all four vertices.
Her role was circumscribed by strict corporate policies.
Ancient maps often circumscribed unknown territories with decorative borders.
The law circumscribes the president’s power to declare war.