encompass

American  

[en-kuhm-puhs] / ɛnˈkʌm pəs /

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.

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encompass British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• encompassment noun
• unencompassed adjective

Etymology

Origin of encompass

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

Example Sentences

But on Tuesday, the PMI data became the first batch of economic indicators that encompass the effects of the Iranian war.

From Barron's

It’s a challenge because this book is trying to encompass a universe, and so the writer has to make choices.

From Salon

His duties have included oversight of its metaverse operations, encompassing virtual and augmented reality.

From The Wall Street Journal

“On the case side of things, I wanted something that encompassed the totality of the show,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times

And this Islamic belief that God encompasses every aspect of earthly life proves both a strength and a weakness.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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