Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

circumspective

American  
[sur-kuhm-spek-tiv] / ˌsɜr kəmˈspɛk tɪv /

adjective

  1. given to or marked by circumspection; watchful; cautious.

    His behavior was circumspective.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of circumspective

First recorded in 1625–35; circumspect + -ive

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.

See Examples For:

Frame your report with circumspective art: Inflame her crimes, exalt your own obedience; But let no thoughtless hint involve Abdalla.

From Dr. Johnson's Works: Life, Poems, and Tales, Volume 1 The Works of Samuel Johnson, Ll.D., in Nine Volumes by Samuel Johnson

The one appeared to be in a sound sleep, and the other keeping the most circumspective vigils.

From The First White Man of the West Life and Exploits of Col. Dan'l. Boone, the First Settler of Kentucky; Interspersed with Incidents in the Early Annals of the Country. by Timothy Flint

To his searching eye and circumspective wariness, the general basis of tradition which might satisfy a Pusey, though sufficiently broad, did not appear sure enough.

From Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine — Volume 54, No. 335, September 1843 by Various

Such incidents are very pleasant and encouraging to the lonely pilgrim and may be made a matter of almost daily occurence by any social but circumspective traveler.

From The Youthful Wanderer An Account of a Tour through England, France, Belgium, Holland, Germany by George H. Heffner

No less alike the politic and wise; All sly slow things, with circumspective eyes; Men in their loose unguarded hours they take, Not that themselves are wise, but others weak.

From An Essay on Man by Henry Morley

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training