circle of least confusion

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noun Optics.

the smallest cross section in a beam of paraxial rays, lying in the plane of least spherical aberration.

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Question 1 of 7

IS and ARE are both forms of which verb?

Origin of circle of least confusion

First recorded in 1865–70

Despite its ranking at the bottom of most international development indexes, the conflict is shrouded by confusion.
The Year’s Most Forgotten Humanitarian Crisis|Nina Strochlic|January 1, 2015|DAILY BEAST
The Dallas Cowboys sell out their state-of-the art football stadium.
Will Texas Stay Texan?|David Fontana|December 29, 2014|DAILY BEAST
So, Linklater just won Best Director by the New York Film Critics Circle.
Coffee Talk with Ethan Hawke: On ‘Boyhood,’ Jennifer Lawrence, and Bill Clinton’s Urinal Exchange|Marlow Stern|December 27, 2014|DAILY BEAST
Julio had come full circle and had returned to Cuba as a tourist in his own country.
Cuban Hip-Hop Was Born in Alamar|Daniel Levin|December 26, 2014|DAILY BEAST

Bohac vowed to that when he came back next year there would be no confusion about any Christmas tree or Santa aprons.
A Field General in the War on Christmas|David Freedlander|December 24, 2014|DAILY BEAST
In the darkness and confusion I did not distinguish the face of the man who rendered me this assistance.
Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, No. CCCXXXIX. January, 1844. Vol. LV.|Various
Wharton and Louis had withdrawn their hands at the same instant they caught his eye; and the Duke turned into the circle.
The Pastor's Fire-side Vol. 3 of 4|Jane Porter
It was the conversation of every circle; and discussed according to the dispositions, or views of the speakers.
The Pastor's Fire-side Vol. 3 of 4|Jane Porter
We (the officers) were sitting in a circle round the general and Alcalde, both of whom appeared uneasy and anxious.
Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, No. CCCXXXIX. January, 1844. Vol. LV.|Various
You never know when you are going to stumble upon a jewel in the most out-of-the-way corner.
Music-Study in Germany|Amy Fay