entrench

[en-trench]

verb (used with object)

1. to place in a position of strength; establish firmly or solidly.

   safely entrenched behind undeniable facts.

   Synonyms: embed, implant, set, ensconce, settle

2. to dig trenches for defensive purposes around (oneself, a military position, etc.).

verb (used without object)

1. to encroach; trespass; infringe (usually followed by on orupon ).

   to entrench on the domain or rights of another.

entrench

/ ɪnˈtrɛntʃ /

verb

1. (tr) to construct (a defensive position) by digging trenches around it

2. (tr) to fix or establish firmly, esp so as to prevent removal or change

3. (intr; foll by on or upon) to trespass or encroach; infringe

Other Word Forms

• reentrench verb
• entrencher noun
• entrenched adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of entrench¹

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

Example Sentences

Meanwhile, much of Japan’s entrenched bureaucracy will fight change with all the resources and ingenuity at its command.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

That’s an asset Anthropic hopes to tap as it works to entrench itself as a trusted AI vendor to large enterprises.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

At the same time, the move lets Saudi Arabia entrench itself with key customers, especially in Asia.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

It also risks further entrenching big pharma, which can afford to move its manufacturing and shift supply chains on whim.

Read more on Barron's

In a world where anti-Blackness and transphobia remain as entrenched as ever, her rise signals both artistic excellence and a profound cultural shift of the stories told about Black and trans experiences.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• define 
• embed 
• ensconce 
• fortify 
• ingrain 
• strengthen