To find a way around an obstacle or to avoid having to comply with something, especially a law or rule. It involves using clever or devious methods to bypass restrictions.
From Latin 'circum' (around) and 'venire' (to come), literally meaning 'to come around.' The word entered English in the 15th century, initially meaning to surround or encircle, but evolved to mean avoiding or getting around something.
Think of a circus tent - you 'circum-vent' by going around the tent instead of through the entrance! This word often appears in contexts about avoiding rules or finding loopholes, making it a favorite on standardized tests.
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