circulate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈsɜːr.kjʊ.leɪt/
KK: /ˈsɜr.kjʊ.leɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To move around freely or spread from one person or place to another.
Example
The news began to circulate quickly among the students.
Tense Forms
Past: circulated
Past Participle: circulated
Conversation
I've noticed that the air doesn't circulate well in this room.
Yeah, it feels a bit stuffy sometimes.
Maybe we should open a window to help it circulate better.
Good idea! Fresh air always makes a difference.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
flow
disperse
spread
Antonyms
stagnate
remain
cease
transitive verb
Definition
To make something move around or be shared among people.
Example
The teacher asked us to circulate the handouts to all the students.
Tense Forms
Past: circulated
Past Participle: circulated
Conversation
Could you help me circulate these flyers around the neighborhood?
Sure! Where do you want me to start?
Maybe you can drop some off at the local coffee shop.
Root Explanation
Circulate is formed from "circum-" (meaning around) and "culare" (meaning to move or flow). The word describes the action of moving or flowing around in a circular path.
Memory Tip
Think of things moving 'around' ('circum-') in a circle — that's what circulate means.
Visually Confused Words
recirculate
aciculate
uncirculated
precirculate
cuticulate
caliculate
aciculated
overcirculate