traffic circle

noun
1.
a circular arrangement constructed at the intersection of two or more roads in order to facilitate the passage of vehicles from one road to another.
Also called rotary; British, roundabout.
Origin
1945-50
Examples from the web for traffic circle
  • There are major differences between the modern roundabout and the old style traffic circle or rotary.
  • When you get to the end of the ramp turn right and follow the road into the traffic circle.
  • Vehicle approaching rotary traffic circle or island.
  • Some customers, especially older ones, aren't stopping by because they're afraid to cross the large traffic circle.
  • Follow the expressway to its end and you will enter a traffic circle.
  • Keep in right hand lane on approach to traffic circle.
  • Drive south approximately one mile to traffic circle.
British Dictionary definitions for traffic circle

traffic circle

noun
1.
(US & Canadian) a road junction in which traffic streams circulate around a central island Also called (in Britain and certain other countries) roundabout