1. a traveling show featuring acrobats, clowns, trained animals, and other entertainers
2. a large tent or arena where circus performances take place
3. a situation of wild activity, confusion, or excitement
Usage: informal

Examples

• The circus came to town with elephants and trapeze artists.
• Children love watching the clowns perform at the circus.
• The big top circus tent was filled with excited spectators.
• The meeting turned into a complete circus with everyone shouting.
• Traffic was backed up around Piccadilly Circus.
• She ran away to join the circus when she was eighteen.
• The three-ring circus entertained audiences for hours.