The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word GYRATED
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The straight part
We know that "went around in circles" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case went around in circles = gyrated.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does GYRATED mean?
GYRATED verb- To revolve round a central point; to move spirally about an axis, as a tornado; to revolve.