Circa/ˈsɜːrkə/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Not for Precision Use 'circa' when exact dates are unknown or an estimate is intended. The artifact dates back to circa 1000 AD. Pro Tip 2/3Common in History 'Circa' is often used in history and archaeology to indicate an approximate time period. The settlement existed circa 500 BC. Pro Tip 3/3Non-technical Contexts While 'circa' can be used informally, it's less common in everyday conversation. She moved to Spain circa 2005.