small circle

American  

noun

1. a circle on a sphere, the plane of which does not pass through the center of the sphere.

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small circle British  

noun

1. a circular section of a sphere that does not contain the centre of the sphere Compare great circle

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Etymology

Origin of small circle

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

Powell himself hasn’t signaled which way he is leaning, and the small circle of advisers and friends who might know are declining to discuss it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

At age 39, Jordan joins a small circle of Black actors who have won the prestigious best actor Oscar, after Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington, Forest Whitaker and Will Smith.

From Barron's • Mar. 16, 2026

He is fond of reminding reporters that he prefers to keep his intentions to himself and a small circle of insiders to avoid potential adversaries knowing his next moves.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026

Instead, my small circle of blood had 39—39!—pieces of plastic in it.

From Slate • May 28, 2025

Chas stood in front of the small circle in the grass and crouched in a hitting position, just staring at me.

From "Winger" by Andrew Smith