CIRCUSES Meaning and
Definition
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Circuses refer to large-scale entertainment events that traditionally involve a variety of acts, performances, and attractions presented in a circular or tented arena. Originally rooted in ancient Roman and Greek civilizations, circuses have evolved over time into extravagant spectacles that feature acrobats, clowns, animal performers, aerialists, stunts, and other thrilling shows.
The distinctive characteristic of circuses is their nomadic nature, as these events often travel from one location to another, setting up their elaborate tents or arenas in different towns and cities to bring entertainment to the public. This mobility allows circuses to adapt to diverse audiences and cater to a wide range of cultural preferences.
In addition to their entertainment value, circuses often present a unique blend of artistry, athleticism, and showmanship. They provide a platform for performers, sometimes referred to as circus artists, to showcase their talents and skills to captivate and dazzle audiences. Circus acts can encompass a broad range of disciplines, including juggling, tightrope walking, contortionism, trapeze acts, fire breathing, and many more.
Circuses have also faced criticism and controversy in recent years, primarily due to concerns regarding animal welfare. Historically, many circuses incorporated animal performers, such as elephants, tigers, lions, and bears, but there has been a significant shift towards animal-free circuses in response to growing ethical concerns.
Overall, circuses have a rich historical and cultural significance, representing a centuries-old form of entertainment that continues to enthral and entertain crowds worldwide.
Top Common Misspellings for CIRCUSES *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CIRCUSES
Etymology of CIRCUSES
The word "circuses" originated from the Latin word "circus", which can be traced back to the Ancient Greek word "kirkos" meaning "circle" or "ring". In Ancient Rome, "circus" referred to a large, oval-shaped arena or a track with raised seats where various forms of entertainment, including chariot races and spectacle games, were held. Over time, "circus" came to specifically refer to the venues and events related to equestrian and chariot performances, and eventually, the term "circus" expanded to include other forms of entertainment, such as acrobatics, animal acts, clowns, and more.
Idioms with the word CIRCUSES
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bread and circuses
The idiom "bread and circuses" refers to the practice of using superficial or temporary means to distract people from their problems or grievances. It commonly implies the government's strategy of providing basic necessities and entertainment to the general public in order to maintain control and avoid addressing deeper societal issues. The phrase originates from the Roman poet Juvenal's satirical description of how the authorities in ancient Rome placated the population by distributing free food (bread) and organizing grand spectacles (circuses).
Similar spelling words for CIRCUSES
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