Encourage around circuit (4)
I believe the answer is:
clap
'encourage' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with communicating as well as being verbs in their base form.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'around circuit' is the wordplay.
'around' becomes 'c' (abbreviation for 'circa').
'circuit' becomes 'lap' (synonyms).
'c'+'lap'='CLAP'
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for clap that I've seen before include "Sudden loud noise (of thunder?)" , "Express approbation with the hands" , "Make sound of applause" , "Audibly show approval" , "express approval" .)