encompass

[ en-kuhm-puhs ]

verb (used with object)

1. to form a circle about; encircle; surround:

   He built a moat to encompass the castle.

2. to enclose; envelop:

   The folds of a great cloak encompassed her person.

3. to include comprehensively:

   a work that encompasses the entire range of the world's religious beliefs.

4. Obsolete. to outwit.

encompass

/ ɪnˈkʌmpəs /

verb

1. to enclose within a circle; surround
2. to bring about; cause to happen; contrive

   he encompassed the enemy's ruin

3. to include entirely or comprehensively

   this book encompasses the whole range of knowledge

Derived Forms

• enˈcompassment, noun

Other Words From

• en·com·pass·ment noun
• un·en·com·passed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encompass¹

First recorded in 1545–55; en- ¹ + compass

Example Sentences

The report “From Skin to Screen: Bodily Integrity in the Digital Age” recommends that existing data protection laws be clarified to encompass all forms of bodily data.

From Los Angeles Times

What’s unique about it is the way it encompasses and enhances other sources of stress, said Brett Ford, a social psychologist at the University of Toronto who studies the link between emotions and political engagement.

From Los Angeles Times

And the Pit River Nation is requesting designation for roughly 200,000 acres of their ancestral territory and spiritual sites in Sáttítla, or the Medicine Lake Highlands, which encompasses striking volcanic formations in Northern California.

From Los Angeles Times

Copyright Office granted access to medical device data, encompassing devices that aren’t implanted and allowing patients to authorize third parties to access devices to a certain extent.

From Salon

“Brighter Days” encompasses a remarkable series of firsts for the musician.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• comprise
• cover
• embody
• embrace
• incorporate
• involve