circumnavigate

[sur-kuhm-nav-i-geyt]

verb (used with object)

circumnavigated, circumnavigating 

1. to sail or fly around; make the circuit of by navigation.

   to circumnavigate the earth.

2. to go or maneuver around.

   to circumnavigate the heavy downtown traffic.

circumnavigate

/ ˌsɜːkəmˈnævɪˌɡeɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to sail or fly completely around

Other Word Forms

• circumnavigable adjective
• circumnavigation noun
• circumnavigator noun
• circumnavigatory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of circumnavigate¹

1625–35; < Latin circumnāvigātus (past participle of circumnāvigāre ), equivalent to circum- circum- + nāvigātus; navigate

Example Sentences

Earhart's disappearance during an attempt to circumnavigate the globe spawned numerous theories - from a simple crash due to fuel exhaustion to more elaborate claims of Japanese capture or US government espionage.

From BBC

In February, they were seen circumnavigating Australia's coastline for more than three weeks where they staged unprecedented live-fire drills.

From BBC

In circumnavigating distant seas, this majestic production recovers some lost treasure of childhood.

From Los Angeles Times

His scheme circumnavigated the existing route of drugs to Scotland through continental Europe, over the sea from Holland to England and then north.

From BBC

A talented aviator, daredevil and dashing superstar, she was attempting to circumnavigate the globe and encourage “other women toward greater independence of thought and action.”

From Los Angeles Times