encircle

[ en-sur-kuhl ]

verb (used with object)

encircled, encircling.

1. to form a circle around; surround; encompass:

   to encircle an enemy.

2. to make a circling movement around; make the circuit of.

encircle

/ ɪnˈsɜːkəl /

verb

1. tr to form a circle around; enclose within a circle; surround

Derived Forms

• enˈcirclement, noun
• enˈcircling, adjective

Other Word Forms

• en·circle·ment noun
• unen·circled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encircle¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; en- ¹, circle

Example Sentences

As the earth began to shake around 10 a.m., the elder elephants in the enclosure rushed to encircle the youngsters, the video shows.

From Los Angeles Times

For if we are too proud, too puffed up with self-worth, especially now, when we’re encircled by the sea’s embrace, in future time we’ll look like total fools.

From Salon

"We have expanded operations in the southern Gaza Strip with the goal of encircling and dividing the Rafah area," he said.

From BBC

The rebel group said it had "encircled the enemy... leaving behind 380 dead," after months of fighting with a coalition of armed groups allied to the Sudanese army known as the Joint Forces.

From BBC

The army headquarters in central Khartoum had been encircled by RSF forces for 21 months, trapping soldiers unable to link up with other army units closing in on the city.

From BBC

Related Words

• enclose
• encompass
• envelop
• hem in
• surround