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Definition of circumvent

circumvent

/ˌsɜːrkəmˈvɛnt/
cir · cum · vent
Adjective:circumventive
•
Past Simple:circumvented
•
Past Participle:circumvented
•
Present Participle:circumventing
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circumvent Lexical Profile

circumvent Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To find a way around an obstacle, rule, or restriction, typically by using cleverness or ingenuity.

Example

"The software developers designed a patch to prevent users from attempting to circumvent the security protocol."

2

To overcome, outwit, or get the better of a person or plan by trickery or superior strategy.

Example

"She managed to circumvent her rivals by securing the exclusive patent before the negotiations began."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for circumvent

• Nearby Words

circumstance
circumstantial
circumstantially
circumvent
circus
cirrhosis
cirrus

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 15th century from Latin circumventus, the past participle of circumvenire ('to come around, encompass, or beset'), formed from circum ('around') and venire ('to come').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Circumvent. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/circumvent
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