Kreisel

Kreisel is a German noun that translates to "roundabout" or "traffic circle" in English. The term derives from Kreis, meaning circle, with the diminutive suffix -el, and is used in German-speaking countries to refer to a circular intersection where several roads meet. In everyday language, Kreisel may also be used more broadly to describe any circular form or motion, though this usage is less common in technical writing.

In road infrastructure, a Kreisel is designed to regulate traffic flow by channeling vehicles around a central island. Typical features include a circular roadway, a raised or landscaped central island, and yield rules for entering the circle. Regulations governing priority on a Kreisel vary by jurisdiction. In many European countries, vehicles on the circular path have priority over those entering; however, specific rules differ by country.

Kreisel is also a surname found in German-speaking regions. As with many other Germanic names, it may be borne by individuals across various professions. The surname does not denote a distinct family business or role beyond its geographic or ancestral origins.

In contemporary usage, Kreisel appears in place names and in signage, and may be adopted as a metaphor in literature or art to emphasize circularity or centrality.