1. to sail or travel completely around (something, especially the Earth or a body of water)
Usage: transitive verb; often used in historical or geographical contexts
2. to avoid or get around (an obstacle or difficulty) by finding an alternative route or method
Usage: transitive verb; figurative use

Examples

• Ferdinand Magellan's expedition circumnavigates the globe in the early 16th century.
• The ship circumnavigates the island to map its coastline.
• She circumnavigates the problem by proposing a creative solution.
• The new highway circumnavigates the downtown area, reducing traffic congestion.
• Modern cargo vessels circumnavigate the world on regular trade routes.
• The company circumnavigates strict regulations through legal loopholes.