circumvallate

[ sur-kuhm-val-eyt ]

adjective

1. surrounded by or as if by a rampart.
2. Anatomy. surrounded by a depression or wall-like ridge.

verb (used with object)

, cir·cum·val·lat·ed, cir·cum·val·lat·ing.

1. to surround with or as if with a rampart.

circumvallate

/ ˌsɜːkəmˈvæleɪt /

verb

1. tr to surround with a defensive fortification

Derived Forms

• ˌcircumvalˈlation, noun

Other Words From

• circum·val·lation noun
• noncir·cum·vallat·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of circumvallate¹

1655–65; < Latin circumvallātus (past participle of circumvallāre to surround with a wall), equivalent to circum- circum- + vall ( um ) rampart, wall + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of circumvallate¹

C19: from Latin circumvallāre, from circum- + vallum rampart

Example Sentences

There are two large circumvallate papillae near the base, rather irregular in form, about a quarter of an inch in diameter and half an inch apart.

From Project Gutenberg

The circumvallate are from seven to twelve in number and lie near the root of the tongue, arranged in the form of a V, with its open angle turned forward.

From Project Gutenberg

But through the gloom, and on the circumvallating reef, the breakers dashed ghost-white.

From Project Gutenberg

And floating away, these vapors blended with the faint mist, as of a cataract, hovering over the circumvallating reef.

From Project Gutenberg

First he made it impossible for the Athenians to circumvallate the city; then he captured the naval stores of the enemy, forcing them to encamp in unhealthy ground.

From Project Gutenberg