encroachment

[ en-krohch-muhnt ]

noun

1. an act or instance of encroaching.
2. anything taken by encroaching.

Other Words From

• nonen·croachment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of encroachment¹

1425–75; late Middle English encrochement < Anglo-French. See encroach, -ment

Example Sentences

He would rather the government focus on reviving the railway line and protect Georgians from creeping Russian encroachment on Georgian land.

From BBC

“We want to push to stop the further encroachment of sexual predators.”

From Los Angeles Times

In a thinly-veiled reference to China's claim over the island, Lai said he would "uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty."

From BBC

He and an assistant were given 15-yard penalties on the ensuing kickoff, then Sierra Canyon picked up a five-yard encroachment penalty.

From Los Angeles Times

Though giant rodents, not to mention huge “rodent-like” mammals, have long since disappeared from South America after succumbing to climatic changes, and perhaps even human encroachment, capybaras and other smaller rodents are still with us.

From Salon

Related Words

• inroad
• intrusion
• invasion