encroach

[ en-krohch ]

verb (used without object)

1. to advance beyond proper, established, or usual limits; make gradual inroads:

   A dictatorship of the majority is encroaching on the rights of the individual.

2. to trespass upon the property, domain, or rights of another, especially stealthily or by gradual advances.

encroach

/ ɪnˈkrəʊtʃ /

verb

1. often foll byon or upon to intrude gradually, stealthily, or insidiously upon the rights, property, etc, of another
2. to advance beyond the usual or proper limits

Derived Forms

• enˈcroacher, noun
• enˈcroachment, noun
• enˈcroachingly, adverb

Other Words From

• en·croach·er noun
• un·en·croached adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encroach¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English encrochen, from Anglo-French encrocher, Old French encrochier “to catch hold of, seize,” equivalent to en- en- ¹ + -crochier, verbal derivative of croc “hook,” from Germanic; crooked, crook ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of encroach¹

C14: from Old French encrochier to seize, literally: fasten upon with hooks, from en- ¹+ croc hook, of Germanic origin; see crook

Synonym Study

See trespass.

Example Sentences

Encampments continue to encroach on his neighborhood, he said, and someone recently broke into his apartment building by throwing a stanchion pole through a window.

From Los Angeles Times

Fires could encroach on critical habitat for the endangered Southern California mountain yellow legged frog.

From Los Angeles Times

Insulated from the harsh realities of occupation until laws limiting the freedom of Jews encroach on her town, Sara’s family makes plans to escape, though they are unable to outrun the Nazi roundups.

From Los Angeles Times

Many fires encroach on protected reserves or indigenous land, either by accidentally getting out of hand, or set by people as deliberate attempts to grab land.

From BBC

He sought to encroach on powers specifically assigned by the Constitution to other branches, to advance his own self-interest and perpetuate himself in power, contrary to the will of the people.

From Slate

Related Words

• horn in
• impinge
• infringe
• intrude
• trespass
• usurp