circulation

noun

cir·​cu·​la·​tion ˌsər-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce circulation (audio)
Synonyms of circulationnext
1
: orderly movement through a circuit
especially : the movement of blood through the vessels of the body induced by the pumping action of the heart
2
: flow
3
a
: passage or transmission from person to person or place to place
especially : the interchange of currency
coins in circulation
b
: the extent of dissemination: such as
(1)
: the average number of copies of a publication sold over a given period
(2)
: the total number of items borrowed from a library

Examples of circulation in a Sentence

He has bad circulation in his legs. The drug improves blood circulation. The attic has poor air circulation. the circulation of ocean waters
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Designed to improve your circulation and reduce swelling that can come from spending long periods of time on your feet, the best-selling Charmking Compression Socks are the ideal companion for your favorite sneakers during travel days of any length. — Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 6 Aug. 2025 On the other coast, The Los Angeles Times‘ one daily print rival, The Daily News, which targets the San Fernando Valley and has a weekday average circulation of 26,056, is another one of the many papers owned by Alden. — Erik Hayden, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 2025 Without the circulation of public opinion through the press, the founders agreed, democracy would be impossible. — Andrea Long Chu, Vulture, 5 Aug. 2025 The work will include the excavation of the creek channel and the removal of invasive plants to improve water circulation and quality. — Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for circulation

Word History

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of circulation was in 1535

Phrases Containing circulation

Rhymes for circulation

See All Rhymes for circulation

Browse Nearby Words

circulating nurse
circulation
circulatory
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Cite this Entry

“Circulation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circulation. Accessed 16 Aug. 2025.

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Kids Definition

circulation

noun
cir·​cu·​la·​tion ˌsər-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce circulation (audio)
1
: orderly movement through a circuit
especially : the movement of blood through the vessels of the body caused by the pumping action of the heart
2
a
: passage from person to person or place to place
coins in circulation
b
: the average number of copies (as of a newspaper) sold over a given period

Medical Definition

circulation

noun
cir·​cu·​la·​tion ˌsər-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce circulation (audio)
: the movement of blood through the vessels of the body that is induced by the pumping action of the heart and serves to distribute nutrients and oxygen to and remove waste products from all parts of the body see pulmonary circulation, systemic circulation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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