full circle

adverb

: through a series of developments that lead back to the original source, position, or situation or to a complete reversal of the original position
—usually used in the phrase come full circle

Examples of full circle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dudamel could have easily left it at that, coming a full circle from 17 years ago. — Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026 And for fall, the romantic boho look popularized by Jane Birkin and Stevie Nicks comes full circle. — Minty Mellon, Vogue, 21 Aug. 2026 Their live debut was in Nashville and marked a true full circle moment. — Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 17 Aug. 2026 For Fernando Camilo, chief scientist at the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory and a co-author of the new paper, the discovery brings a long journey full circle. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for full circle

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1616, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of full circle was circa 1616

Rhymes for full circle

See All Rhymes for full circle

Browse Nearby Words

full-cell process
full circle
full close
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Full circle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/full%20circle. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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