encroach

[en-krohch]

verb (used without object)

1. to advance beyond proper, established, or usual limits; make gradual inroads.

   A dictatorship of the majority is encroaching on the rights of the individual.

2. to trespass upon the property, domain, or rights of another, especially stealthily or by gradual advances.

encroach

/ ɪnˈkrəʊtʃ /

verb

1. to intrude gradually, stealthily, or insidiously upon the rights, property, etc, of another

2. to advance beyond the usual or proper limits

Other Word Forms

• encroacher noun
• encroachment noun
• encroachingly adverb
• unencroached adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encroach¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English encrochen, from Anglo-French encrocher, Old French encrochier “to catch hold of, seize,” equivalent to en- en- ¹ + -crochier, verbal derivative of croc “hook,” from Germanic; crooked, crook ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of encroach¹

C14: from Old French encrochier to seize, literally: fasten upon with hooks, from _en- ¹ + croc hook, of Germanic origin; see _crook

Synonym Study

See trespass.

Example Sentences

This ongoing process damages the diverse life that depends on sandy environments, disrupts local economies that rely on fishing and tourism, and leaves coastal cities more exposed to encroaching waters.

Read more on Science Daily

A report that Meta is in discussions to buy billions of dollars’ worth of Alphabet’s highly specialized AI microchips has led to speculation that the Google parent could encroach on Nvidia’s dominant market share.

Read more on MarketWatch

It also has begun the construction of a wall that encroaches on Lebanese territory, according to Unifil, the United Nations peacekeeping force.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

It has also begun the construction of a wall that encroaches on Lebanese territory, according to Unifil, the United Nations peacekeeping force.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But some residents say they don’t feel safe walking to such places, with sidewalk tents encroaching on bus stops, bike lanes and roadways.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• horn in 
• impinge 
• infringe 
• intrude 
• trespass 
• usurp