Circumscribed means limited or restricted within clear boundaries. When something is circumscribed, it's confined to a specific area or kept within certain limits, like a circle drawn around it.

In geometry, a circumscribed circle is drawn around a shape so it touches all the outer points, perfectly containing it. This mathematical meaning captures the essence of the word: something held within defined limits.

A teacher might give students circumscribed freedom during a project, meaning they can be creative but must follow certain rules. A country's power might be circumscribed by its constitution, which sets clear boundaries on what the government can and cannot do. An athlete recovering from an injury might have circumscribed activities, allowed to walk but not run, stretch but not lift weights.

When responsibilities are circumscribed, they're clearly defined: you know exactly what you should do and what falls outside your role. The word suggests intentional limitation rather than vague restriction. If your weekend plans are circumscribed by homework and chores, you know precisely what you must do before you can have free time. The boundaries may feel confining, but at least they're clear.