WordGarden.iocircus
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɜːkəs/
US
- /ˈsɜrkəs/
Meanings
Noun
a live entertainment show or troupe with acrobats, clowns, and similar performers
(informal)a chaotic, noisy, or sensational public situation
a circular public arena or open place, especially in historical or British place names
Beyond the definition
The circus! Just the word conjures images of dazzling lights, thrilling acts, and the smell of popcorn. A circus is a traveling or stationary show featuring trained animals, acrobats, clowns, and other skilled performers, meant to entertain an audience. But "circus" can also describe something chaotic or busy—like the circus surrounding a political scandal!
Think about it: a real circus has a ringmaster keeping everything moving, daring feats of skill, and a sense of wonder. Similarly, when life feels like a circus, it means things are hectic, unpredictable, and full of activity. The word comes from the Latin circus, referring to an ancient Roman track for chariot races—a place for public spectacle!
The word "circus" most commonly refers to a traveling entertainment show featuring a variety of acts designed to amaze and delight audiences. These shows traditionally include acrobats, clowns, trained animals (though this is becoming less common), jugglers, tightrope walkers, and other skilled performers, usually performing under a large tent—often called the "big top"—or in an arena. Think vibrant costumes, dramatic music, and the thrilling energy of live performance!
However, "circus" isn't always about entertainment. It can also be used figuratively to describe a chaotic, frenzied, or busy situation. If there's a lot of commotion surrounding an event—like a media frenzy around a celebrity trial—you might say it's "a three-ring circus." This usage emphasizes the disorganized and overwhelming nature of the activity.
Historically, the word comes from the Latin circus, which originally referred to the large open space in ancient Rome used for chariot races and public spectacles. These Roman circuses were massive structures designed to hold huge crowds and provide thrilling entertainment.
So whether you're picturing a dazzling performance under the big top or describing a chaotic situation, "circus" evokes a sense of spectacle, excitement, and often, a little bit of controlled chaos. It's a word that speaks to both organized entertainment and lively disarray.
Examples
- 1
Visiting show
The circus came to town for one weekend in July.
- 2
Circus work
She spent two years working in the circus as an acrobat.
- 3
Modern performance
Modern circuses often focus on music and acrobatics instead of animals.
- 4
Chaotic situation
Trying to seat 200 guests without a plan was a complete circus.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Press attention
The trial became a media circus within a few days.
- Phrasemedia circus
a situation that gets a lot of noisy attention from the press
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- circusnoun
Forms
- circusespluralnoun