Cir′cum‐scribe″ (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Circumscribed (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Circumscribing.] [L. circumscribere, -scriptum; circum + scribere to write, draw. See Soribe.]
1. to write or engrave around.
Thereon is circumscribed this epitaph.
Ashmole.
2. To inclose within a certain limit; to hem in; to surround; to bound; to confine; to restrain.
To circumscribe royal power.
Bancroft.
3. (Geom.) To draw a line around so as to touch at certain points without cutting. See Inscribe, 5.
Syn. — To bound; limit; restrict; confine; abridge; restrain; environ; encircle; inclose; encompass.