noun
circus
SUR-kuhs/ˈsɜːrkəs/
A public show of acrobats, clowns, and similar performers.
The circus features a balancing acrobat, a clown, and a juggler.
Etymology
Latin circus named a ring and an arena for contests or performances. The name later extended from the performance space to the entertainers and entertainment, producing the traveling-show sense.
In context
this was an article to uh encourage people to attend the circus and so Harvey and six on other San Francisco celebrities were invited to dress up like clowns
More examples
- A traveling circus sets up its tent outside town.
- The press conference turned into a chaotic circus.
- She worked as a juggler in the circus.
Forms
circus · circuses
Similar words
- carnival
- A carnival may center on rides and booths; a circus centers on live performing acts.