a traveling company of performers that may include acrobats, clowns, trained animals, and other novelty acts, that gives shows usually in a circular tent, a public scene of frenetic and noisily intrusive activity

run away to the circus, three-ring circus, dog and pony show

Formal and Informal Expressions of circus

In different contexts, you can replace 'circus' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'performance, spectacle' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'show, freak show' is a commonplace synonym.

circus: Explore its Definition & Usage

circus Definition

1a traveling company of performers that may include acrobats, clowns, trained animals, and other novelty acts, that gives shows usually in a circular tent
2a public scene of frenetic and noisily intrusive activity

Using circus: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "circus" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The circus is coming to town next week.
Example
The children were thrilled by the circus performers.
Example
The political circus surrounding the election was exhausting.
Example
The media circus surrounding the celebrity's scandal was overwhelming.

circus Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for circus

Antonyms for circus

Phrases with circus

run away to the circus
to leave one's current life or situation to join a traveling group of performers
Example
After her divorce, she decided to run away to the circus and start a new life as an acrobat.
three-ring circus
a situation or event that is chaotic, confusing, or complicated
Example
The meeting turned into a three-ring circus with everyone talking over each other and no clear decisions being made.
dog and pony show
a presentation or event that is flashy and impressive but has little substance or value
Example
The CEO's presentation was just a dog and pony show with no real plans for improving the company.

Origins of circus

from Latin 'circus', meaning 'ring'

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Summary: circus in Brief

A 'circus' [ˈsɜːrkəs] is a traveling company of performers that puts on shows, often in a circular tent. It can include acrobats, clowns, and trained animals. The term also refers to a public scene of frenzied activity, as in 'The political circus surrounding the election was exhausting.' Phrases like 'run away to the circus' and 'three-ring circus' extend the metaphorical use of the term.