circuit

A circuit diagram shows in graphical form how the components of an electric circuit are connected together. Each component is represented by an internationally recognized symbol, and the connecting wires are shown by straight lines. A dot indicates where wires join.

An integrated circuit (IC), or silicon chip.

Electrical symbols commonly used in circuit diagrams.

In physics or electrical engineering, an arrangement of electrical components connected by a conducting material through which a current can flow. There are two basic circuits, series and parallel. In a series circuit, the components are connected end to end so that the current flows through all components one after the other. In a parallel circuit, components are connected side by side so that part of the current passes through each component. A circuit diagram shows in graphical form how components are connected together, using standard symbols for the components. If the circuit is unbroken, it is a closed circuit and current flows. If the circuit is broken, it becomes an open circuit and no current flows.

circuit

In law, the geographic district that constitutes a particular area of jurisdiction.

In the USA the Court of Appeals sits in ten judicial areas or circuits – hence circuit courts – and Washington, DC.