encompass

[en-kuhm-puhs]

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.

encompass

/ 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

Other Word Forms

• encompassment noun
• unencompassed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encompass¹

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

Example Sentences

The modern Catholic church has consistently held to a pro-life position that encompasses more than abortion, including opposition to the death penalty.

Read more on Salon

Officials said that the investigation of the blast, which encompassed an entire building, was in its early stages and that they didn’t know what caused it.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The “devastating blast” encompassed one entire building on the site, he said.

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It sprawls 90 miles along the Pacific Coast, encompassing gems such as Baker Beach.

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In retaliation, Israel launched a furious response that has so far killed 67,183 people, encompassing more than 3% of the enclave’s population and including 20,179 children, the Palestinian Health Ministry says.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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