cir·cus 
/ˈsɚkəs/ noun
plural cir·cus·es /ˈsɚkəs/ noun [count] 1 : a traveling show that is often performed in a tent and that typically includes trained animals, clowns, acrobats, etc.
▪ He worked for a small circus. ▪ We're going to the circus. ▪ She always wanted to join the circus. [=to become a performer in a circus] — often used before another noun ▪ circus clowns/animals/performers 2 informal : a situation or event that is very busy, lively, and confusing and that attracts a lot of attention — usually singular ▪ The town meeting quickly became a circus. ▪ The trial has become a media circus. — see also three-ring circus 3 Brit : a circular area where several streets meet — usually used in proper names ▪ Piccadilly Circus in London 4 : a large outdoor theater in ancient Rome where shows and sports events were held
▪ the Circus Maximus
▪ He worked for a small circus. ▪ We're going to the circus. ▪ She always wanted to join the circus. [=to become a performer in a circus] — often used before another noun ▪ circus clowns/animals/performers
▪ the Circus Maximus
