circling
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈsɜːrklɪŋ/
KK: /ˈsɜrklɪŋ/
noun
Definition
A movement in a circular path or shape.
Example
The circling of the birds above the field was a beautiful sight.
Conversation
Have you ever noticed how the leaves start circling when the wind picks up?
Yeah, it's like they're dancing in the air!
I love how nature has its own little circling patterns, don’t you?
Absolutely! It’s so relaxing to watch.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
loop
orbit
ring
Antonyms
straight
line
path
verb
Definition
To move around something in a circular path.
Example
The birds were circling above the lake.
Tense Forms
Past: circled
Past Participle: circled
Conversation
I saw some birds circling in the sky today.
Really? That sounds beautiful!
Yeah, it made me think about how free they must feel.
Root Explanation
Circling → It is formed from "circle" (from Latin "circulus", meaning a small ring or circle) and "-ing" (a suffix used to indicate the action or process of). The word "circling" refers to the action of moving around in a circular path.
Memory Tip
Think of a small "ring" or "circle" and remember that "circling" means moving around in that shape.
Visually Confused Words
crackling
chirpling
chickling
wirling
girling
cycling
curling
coiling