circle back
Americanverb phrase
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to return to an earlier point on a path, trip, etc., often by a different route so as to make a loop.
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to return to an earlier point, topic of conversation, or stage in a process.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Yes, Treasurys do go in a big circle back to banks, but the stablecoin-owned Treasury in custody can’t create economy-friendly lending, unlike a Treasury in bank reserves.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 20, 2026
The Phillies hired former Dodgers manager Don Mattingly on an interim basis and likely will circle back to Cora after the season.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 1, 2026
It is the prime minister's judgement which his critics circle back to again and again, every time the story returns.
From BBC ● Mar. 11, 2026
While the views expressed may vary, conversations about Alberta independence typically circle back to oil.
From Barron's ● Jan. 29, 2026
This time, however, the aircraft did not circle back.
From "The Cay" by Theodore Taylor
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
