How Do You Spell CIRCUMNAVIGATION?
Pronunciation: [sˌɜːkəmnˌavɪɡˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [sˌɜːkəmnˌavɪɡˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)
Circumnavigation is a noun that refers to the act of traveling completely around something, particularly in reference to traveling around the entire globe or a large body of water. It is derived from the Latin word "circumnavigatio," which literally means "sailing around" or "navigating around."
In the context of maritime travel, circumnavigation specifically denotes the complete journey around the Earth's surface. It involves crossing various bodies of water, such as oceans or seas, and may require crossing multiple continents or visiting different countries and lands. Historical examples of famous circumnavigations include Ferdinand Magellan's voyage in the 16th century, where his fleet became the first to sail around the world, and more recent feats like those accomplished by sailor Laura Dekker, who completed a solo global circumnavigation at the young age of 16.
Additionally, circumnavigation can also be used in a more general sense to describe traveling around a large body of water or any other circular or spherical object. This can include journeys around islands, lakes, or even the orbits of celestial bodies. It encompasses the idea of encompassing a complete circle or circuit, returning to the starting point after traveling along a continuous path around the central object.
Overall, circumnavigation refers to the act of navigating around and completing a journey around the entirety of something, typically the Earth or a large body of water.
The act of sailing round the globe.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "circumnavigation" is derived from the Latin word "circumnavigatio", which is composed of the prefix "circum", meaning "around", and the verb "navigatio", meaning "sailing". Therefore, the etymology of "circumnavigation" can be traced back to the Latin phrase "circum-navigatio", referring to the act of sailing or traveling around something.
