surrounding

American  

[suh-roun-ding] / səˈraʊn dɪŋ /

noun

1. something that surrounds.

2. surroundings, environing things, circumstances, conditions, etc.; environment.

   He was too sick to be aware of his surroundings.

3. the act of encircling or enclosing.

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adjective

1. enclosing or encircling.

2. being the environment or adjacent area.

Related Words

See environment.

Etymology

Origin of surrounding

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English: literally “inundation”; surround, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

In addition to infrastructure investments in the surrounding roads, the Bears are at risk if they do not know their tax bill.

From The Wall Street Journal

So, experts say it’s a good idea to pay close attention to your surroundings when out hiking.

From Los Angeles Times

Octopuses and cuttlefish are famous for their ability to blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

From Science Daily

The US could use elements of the 82nd Airborne Division - which were deployed to the Middle East - to secure the areas surrounding Isfahan and Natanz.

From BBC

The Army is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the mission, Spokesman Maj Montrell Russell told the BBC in a statement, including whether the crews complied with federal flying regulations and aviation safety protocols.

From BBC

Related Words

• neighboring