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Synonyms

encircle

American  
[en-sur-kuhl] / ɛnˈsɜr kəl /

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 British  
/ ɪnˈsɜːkəl /

verb

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • encirclement noun
  • encircling adjective
  • unencircled adjective

Etymology

Origin of encircle

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They see the women encircling Naomi, who’s still holding on to Mother for support.

From Literature

He heard the familiar puttering of an old propeller, recognizing for an instant the Universal logo above him, the giant globe being encircled by a small airplane.

From Literature

The island identified beneath Karnak is the only known example of such high ground encircled by water in the region.

From Science Daily

China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels this week to encircle Taiwan's main island.

From Barron's

Chinese authorities have published a map showing several large zones encircling Taiwan where the operations are taking place.

From Barron's