Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe SPRINGFIELD, Mass., June 23 (UPI) -- An animal rights group wants the leading U.S. dictionary publisher to change its definition of circus. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals defines a circus as "spectacle that relies on captive animals." For good measure, PETA would add that the human performers are willing but the animals perform "under the constant threat of punishment," the Boston Herald reported. Advertisement Merriam-Webster's current definition of a circus is "an arena often covered by a tent and used for variety shows, usually including feats of physical skill, wild animal acts, and performances by clowns." In a letter to the publisher, PETA said chains, whips, bullhooks and other devices are used to punish and terrorize circus animals. "People who use your dictionary deserve an accurate description of this cruel business, and we hope that you'll consider our suggestion," PETA said in its letter. Merriam-Webster, based in Springfield, Mass., often does change and update definitions.
