Cir`cum*scribe" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Circumscribed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Circumscribing.] [L. circumscribere, -scriptum; circum + scribere to write, draw. See Soribe.]

1. to write or engrave around. [R.]

Thereon is circumscribed this epitaph.
Ashmole.

2. To inclose within a certain limit; to hem in; to surround; to bound; to confine; to restrain.

To circumscribe royal power.
Bancroft.

3. (Geom.) To draw a line around so as to touch at certain points without cutting. See Inscribe, 5.

Syn. -- To bound; limit; restrict; confine; abridge; restrain; environ; encircle; inclose; encompass.

• To draw a line around; encircle.
  
• To limit narrowly; restrict.