Circulation

/ˌsɜːr.kjəˈleɪ.ʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the movement of blood through the body's network of arteries and veins
Regular exercise helps improve blood circulation.
the continuous movement of a substance or an object in a system or process
The circulation of air in the room was improved with a new fan.
the distribution of printed materials to the public, such as newspapers or magazines
The magazine has a circulation of over one million copies.
the exchange of currency or credit in economic systems
The government introduced new measures to increase the circulation of money in the economy.
the process of moving or being moved around an area or from person to person
The circulation of information on social media can happen in seconds.

Etymology

From Latin 'circulatio', from 'circulare' meaning 'to move in a circle'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

blood circulation
The flow of blood through the heart and blood vessels.
in circulation
Referring to items that are currently in use or available to the public.
free circulation
The unrestricted movement of goods, people, or information.

Related Words

circulate
To move or cause to move continuously or freely through a closed system.
circulatory system
The system in the body responsible for the circulation of blood and lymph.
recycling
The process of converting waste into reusable material.

Slang Meanings

Circulation can refer to the spread of gossip or rumors.
Did you hear that rumor? It's already in circulation.
In finance, circulation can refer to the amount of currency in current use.
There's too much cash in circulation causing inflation.