circumvent
UK: /ˌsɜːkəmˈvent/ | US: /ˌsɜːrkəmˈvent/
vt. to find a way around (an obstacle or rule)
vt. to deceive or outwit someone through cleverness
circumvent = circum<around> + vent<come>
- circum (Latin origin: "around")
Retains its original meaning of "around" or "encircling," seen in words like circumference and circumnavigate. - vent (Latin origin: venire, "to come")
Reflects movement or arrival, as in advent (coming) or convene (come together).
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin circumvenire ("to come around"), the word originally described physically bypassing something. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to include overcoming rules or outmaneuvering opponents. The morphemes circum- and -vent remain transparent, making the word’s logic clear: "coming around" a barrier, literally or figuratively.
The hacker circumvented the firewall using a sophisticated exploit.
They circumvented the traffic jam by taking back roads.
The lawyer found a loophole to circumvent the strict regulations.
He tried to circumvent the system, but his fraud was detected.
The new policy aims to prevent companies from circumventing environmental laws.